Drug dealer named as victim lay dying is found guilty of murder after stabbing

Damian Taff, 29, was murdered outside a drugs den on Swanbourne Road, in the Parson Cross area of Sheffield last year.

Mr Taff, of Margate Drive, Grimethorpe, was stabbed by the gang running the drugs operation but was able to tell police officers the name of his attacker, Benjamin Grant, as he struggled for breath.

Grant, 31, of Swanbourne Road, Parson Cross, was yesterday found guilty of murder at Sheffield Crown Court. He was also convicted of conspiracy to supply class A drugs.

Another man, Ryan Wood, was acquitted of murder but was convicted of conspiracy to supply class A Drugs.

The court was told that Mr Taff led a somewhat chaotic lifestyle but was a good father, partner and son.

After the attack he was taken to Northern General Hospital in the early hours of September 1, but died a short time later.

The court heard that Swanbourne Road was the base of a sophisticated 24/7 drug dealing operation that brought misery to local residents.

Speaking afterwards, Detective Superintendent Lisa Ray, of South Yorkshire Police, said it had been a complicated case.

She said: “If we can take anything positive from Damian’s death, it is the fact that this drugs den has been closed down with those responsible being put behind bars.

“Drugs cause misery to so many people and those that suffer from crime as a direct result of people trying to fund their habit.”

She added: “I am pleased for the family, in particular Damian’s partner and mother to his two young children, Lindsay Mitchell.

“I would like to pay tribute to Lindsay, who despite many upsets during the trial, has acted with the utmost dignity throughout.”

Det Supt Ray also praised local residents: “The assistance of the local community was overwhelming, in particular the vulnerable witnesses who gave evidence in court. Their support of the police investigation has contributed to a successful outcome.”

Four other people were convicted of offences relating to Mr Taff’s death. They, along with Grant, are due to be sentenced next month.