Murderer kicked friend to death in victim's own flat then called for pizza

A NOTTINGHAM murderer kicked his “vulnerable” friend to death in the victim's own Clifton flat and then called for a pizza.

- By MARTIN NAYLOR

Nottingham Crown Court heard how Caine Lonsdale caused “gentle giant” Jonathan Dittia a total of 63 separate injuries, mainly to his head before failing to summon any help for 90 minutes.

The 34-year-old killer then ate his pizza, went to his father’s house and said: “Ey up dad, I’ve killed a mate” before dialing 999 and telling police he has “stomped on” the head of his 40-year-old victim.

In a victim impact statement, Mr Dittia’s mother told how her son, who had learning difficulties, “may have been a big bloke but he was a gentle giant who would not hurt a fly” and “did not deserve to die” in the savage way he did.

Jailing Lonsdale for life and telling him it will be 15 years until he is eligible to apply for parole, Judge James Sampson said: “Jonathan Dittia was 40 years old when he was murdered by you. He was a beloved son, brother and grandson who was described by those who knew and loved him as a gentle person with a heart of gold.

“A neighbour heard banging noises at around 5.30pm and at 7pm you called for a pizza. That means for around 90 minutes you failed to summon any help. I cannot be sure any weapon was used apart from your shod foot but it is clear you repeatedly hit Mr Dittia to the head. The reason for this merciless and sustained attack must lie within your murderous personality.”