A lead figure in the notorious Nomads is “gutted” Shayne George Heappey was killed “for disrespecting the gang”.
The defence counsel for Randall Clinton Waho made the submission when the 46-year-old appeared for sentencing in the High Court at Christchurch on Friday.
Justice Cameron Mander convicted Waho of injuring Heappey, 25, with intent to cause grievous bodily harm before sentencing him to three years and three months’ imprisonment.
Two other people – Leonie Sherie Cook and Richard John Sim – were jailed last year on the same charge after admitting their roles in the events that led to Heappey’s death on December 8, 2018. Two others have been charged with Heappey’s murder and will face trial in March.
Waho’s daughter-in-law had believed Heappey owed her money and had not returned a car he had borrowed. After Heappey ignored requests to settle the debt, he was accused of “disrespecting the gang”. Waho provided other gang members with Heappey’s cellphone number and an incentive to find him regarding the debt.
Heappey was brought to a gathering at a house in Russley, Christchurch, where he was allegedly assaulted by others and stabbed 14 times. Two of the stab wounds penetrated his heart. Cook took him to Christchurch Hospital where he died of his injuries.
Waho has been referred to as the president of the Nomads gang, but denies this was the case. He did admit he was in position of influence within the gang. He has led a gang lifestyle since his teenage years.
In a victim impact statement, Heappey’s sister described him as a loving father, son, brother and friend.
His death had led to breakdowns in family relationships, mental breakdowns and employment losses, she said.
“Shayne was an amazing, smiley person and because of [Waho’s] actions, his 5-year-old daughter will never be able to play with or cuddle her daddy.”
Defence counsel Josh Lucas said Waho had true remorse for what he did and was “gutted” by Heappey’s death.
“He is trying to become a better person, slowly but surely. He has gone on a few courses already and he is looking forward to doing more courses to aid in his rehabilitation.”
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Source: Stuff