17/08/06 - Police probe murder claim
Steve Clow
steve.clow@essexchronicle.co.uk
Essex Chronicle

Essex Police are to investigate murder claims made by a family who believe their only son was killed by a drug gang. Heartbroken father Les Balkwell, 60, of Hornchurch, last week met Det Supt Keith Garnish, naming those he alleges killed Lee, 33, at Baldwins Farm, Upminster, four years ago.

An Essex Police spokeswoman commented: "We have agreed to look into a number of matters raised by Mr Balkwell.

"It would not be appropriate to comment until that process is complete."

Mr Balkwell recently launched a website justiceforleebalkwell.com to bring the killers to justice.

However Essex Police say they do not have enough evidence to prove he was murdered beside the cement lorry he drove for a living.

The lorry's mixer was somehow activated and Lee, from Elm Park, was found crushed in its machinery around 1.30am on July 18, 2002.

"It was impossible for Lee to have activated the mixer.

"Who did it has never been properly investigated," said Mr Balkwell.

Mr Balkwell said after the meeting: "Mr Garnish is very experienced because of his Met Police background.

"He sounded upbeat so I feel confident they will be brought to justice."

"I told him that my son's clothing was burned and that no significant witnesses were interviewed neither were statements taken from the emergency services.

"I have yet to see any Health and Safety report.

"No toxicology or pathology reports were made.

"It's little wonder that the Crown Prosecution Service decided not to take action.

"It's four years since Lee died and we are still awaiting an inquest into his death."