Manslaughter conviction following Gravesend stabbing

A dispute over money has led to a manslaughter conviction following the death of a man in Gravesend.

Vladimirs Perminovs suffered multiple stab wounds following an argument in an alleyway on Tuesday 12 August 2025.

Earlier that day, a disagreement over money had taken place and arrangements were made for a group to meet at a property in St Augustine Road. Altin Shehu, 34, and the victim were among those present.

Violence erupted

Within minutes of the group meeting, violence erupted and the confrontation moved into a nearby alleyway, where Vladimirs was stabbed by Shehu. The incident was captured on a neighbour's mobile phone.

Vladimirs was driven to a local hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

During the investigation, officers used the mobile phone footage to identify Shehu. Forensic examinations also found blood on discarded clothing that matched Shehu.

Shehu fled the UK and returned to Albania. Following extensive enquiries, he was located, arrested and extradited to the United Kingdom in May 2026 to face trial.

Manslaughter

On Friday 6 November 2026, following a trial at Maidstone Crown Court, Shehu was acquitted of murder but found guilty of manslaughter. A man and a woman were also found not guilty of murder.

Detective Sergeant James Dolby said: 'Today's verdict brings an end to a complex investigation that included extensive enquiries to uncover the full circumstances of what happened.

'Shehu attempted to distance himself from the crime by travelling overseas, but it was the determination of the investigation team that secured the evidence needed to bring him back to the UK and before the courts.

'It is my hope that this outcome brings some measure of justice and closure to everyone affected by this tragic incident.'