Our hearts go out to the family for their loss of Mr Kohli after experiencing a senseless, unnecessary tragedy. 

Over the past few months, ASB Help has been following this case closely, as it has raised serious concerns about how anti-social behaviour (ASB) is reported, recorded, and acted upon in our communities.

The case: From reports of ASB to a fatal attack

In September 2024, 80-year-old Mr Bhim Kohli was murdered in his local community. On 8th April 2025, a 13-year-old girl and a 15-year-old boy were found guilty of manslaughter.

  • The boy received a seven-year custodial sentence

  • The girl was given a three-year youth rehabilitation order and a six-month curfew

The incident followed a series of unaddressed anti-social behaviour reports in the area. Many in the community, and nationally, believe these sentences do not reflect the severity of the crime. A report has now been submitted to the Unduly Lenient Sentence Scheme to consider lengthening the sentence.

Calls for an Investigation into Police Handling

Following the convictions, Mr Kohli’s daughter has called on the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) to re-examine the Leicestershire Police investigation, alleging that officers “sat on information” that could have prevented the tragedy.

Leicestershire Police have since stated they have identified “organisational learning” for logging anti-social behaviour reports.

Why Early Intervention in ASB Matters

This case shows the urgent need for proactive community safety measures and effective early intervention when dealing with anti-social behaviour.

The UK has seen similar tragedies before, including the case of Fiona Pilkington and Francesca Hardwick, where unrecognised or poorly addressed ASB led to devastating consequences. As highlighted in Baroness Newlove’s report, “Still Living a Nightmare”, the problem remains widespread across England and Wales.

At ASB Help, we regularly hear from victims who feel ignored by agencies they turn to for protection. Too often, reports are dismissed as “low-level” nuisance or “kids messing about” – when in reality, the harm caused can be profound, long-lasting, and, as in Mr Kohli’s case, fatal.

As the case has progressed, we have learned about the anti-social behaviour Mr Kohli experienced prior to his death: 

BBC News reported: 

“The BBC was previously told it was reported to police that in July last year, Mr Kohli had stones thrown at him, was spat at and had been racially abused by a group of children after he told them to get off his neighbour’s garage roof.” 

The Guardian reported:  

“It is understood that at least two separate incidents of alleged antisocial behaviour on Kohli’s street had been reported to police in recent weeks. 

In an incident in July, police were called after a group of youths allegedly spat and shouted racist abuse at Kohli. In light of to their prior contact, Leicestershire police have made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.” 

This growing problem, with seemingly escalating behaviours, has understandably shaken up the local community. 

The Guardian reported: 

“Some said they had noticed a steady uptick in antisocial behaviour locally, particularly over the past couple of years. 

“We do have bad behaviour issues with kids,” said Vijay Chaganlal, who has run a local convenience shop for nine years. He said customers “feel intimidated when there are kids hanging around and do say it’s scary when kids come in”. Often youths wore balaclavas, he added, 

He said it had an impact on his business, but he hadn’t contacted police for a number of years “because they don’t come. You don’t see them round here; we’ve just given up”” 

Remembering Bhim Kohli

Mr Kohli was a well-loved member of his community, passionate about his allotment and his family dog, Rocky. His family describe their loss:

“Our hearts have been completely broken.”

If you are experiencing anti-social behaviour, please report it to your local council, police and housing provider (if applicable).  

Remember –  

Every voice has a right to be heard.  

Your voice matters. Get in touch with us for free advice on anti-social behaviour.