THE killer of East London student Michael Jones described by cops as “a liar and a loser” has been convicted of his murder by an Old Bailey jury. Michael, an 18-year-old from Queen Mary’s College in Mile End, was stabbed to death through the chest by intruder at his home in North London back in March. Detectives this week were still looking for the jewellery that killer Tony Paul took during the raid

By Mike Brooke

THE killer of East London student Michael Jones described by cops as “a liar and a loser” has been convicted of his murder by an Old Bailey jury.

Michael, an 18-year-old from Queen Mary’s College in Mile End, was stabbed to death through the chest by intruder at his home in North London back in March.

Detectives this week were still looking for the jewellery (pictured) that killer Tony Paul took during the raid.

Michael’s parents were in court today (Thursday) to see a jury find 46-year-old civil servant Paul guilty of their son’s murder. He is being sentenced tomorrow.

Michael’s mother Kathleen Kirby-Jones had unknowingly disturbed the intruder when she returned home from work on March 13.

She discovered her son’s body, then realised someone was still in the house and had to barricade herself into a room as the intruder tried to get at her.

“His mum went through an ordeal that can only be described as a nightmare,” said Det Chief Ins John Macdonald. “I can’t imagine a worse situation for any parent to be in.

“But she has shown immense strength to be able to attend court and give evidence.

“The parents’ lives have been charged for ever by Michael’s murder.

“But at least they saw the person responsible convicted and imprisoned.”

He described the killer as “a coward” who had lied ever since his arrest.

“Tony Paul was a fantasist who believed he was a big-time gambler and womaniser,” Mr Macdonald continued.

“He was a loser who owned nothing of any value, despite working as a middle ranking civil servant for many years.

“He had wasted his money away, while Michael and his mum worked hard and had a nice lifestyle.

“Why he resorted to killing Michael Jones and inflicting such horrendous injuries can have only been out of pure spite and vindictiveness.”

He added: “It would have made things easier for his parents if Tony Paul told us what actually happened and why it happened. Unfortunately, he wouldn’t do that.”

Police still want to recover the jewellery that Paul stole from Michael which has never been recovered, nine months on.

They include an 18ins, nine-carat gold neck chain, a crucifix and a distinctive gold ring.

The ring, with the initials MJ’ and three white stones on the M’, has special sentimental value as his father, who shares the same initials, gave it to him.

Detectives are appealing to anyone with information to contact the Incident Room on 020-8345 3985, or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.