Memphis Teen Linked To Nicola Furlong Murder After Nicki Minaj Concert In Japan

A Memphis man, still in his teens, is believed to be connected to the murder of Irish exchange student Nicola Furlong, 21, that was killed following a Nicki Minai concert in Tokyo in May. Richard Hinds, 19, a 2011 Central High School graduate of Memphis is being held along with friend, hip-hop dancer James Blackston, as more evidence in the case is collected.

According to reports, keyboardist Richard Hinds, previously identified as Larry Perry in several media reports, was the person found in the room next to Furlong’s body after complaints were made by hotel guests of loud noise. Hinds was discovered in the room with an unresponsive Nicola Furlong by a hotel staff member at the Keio Plaza Hotel in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

Hinds, who was in the county reportedly touring with Japanese pop star AI, is suspected of strangling Furlong by cervical compression.

While people continue to wonder about the murder of Nicola Furlong, Richard Hinds along with Blackston are reportedly being held in a Japanese prison on suspicion of giving Furlong’s friend reportedly named Sarah Maher, 21, alcoholic drinks and then groping her while inside of a taxi cab.

Meanwhile the family of Richard Hinds, who has not been named as an official suspect due to being considered a minor in Japan, is stated to be trying to get the teen back home. Getting the teen home may take some time because of Japanese law. Hinds and Blackston may be held for a long period while the investigation continues.

As for charges, the two reportedly have been charged with forcible indecency after allegedly drugging and molesting Nicola Furlong’s friend.