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Soldiers

Contradictory Evidence in Bloody Sunday Trial Raises Questions About Prosecution's Case

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Judge Patrick Lynch heard arguments that key evidence against Soldier F, a veteran charged with the murders of James Wray and William McKinney during a civil rights parade in Londonderry on January 30, 1972, was unreliable and could lead to an unsafe conviction. The prosecution relies on statements by fellow former paratroopers Soldier G and Soldier H, who claim Soldier F fired at civilians. However, the defence argues that these accounts contradict each other, are unreliable, and do not "stack up."

Key Takeaways:

  • The prosecution's case against Soldier F relies heavily on statements from fellow former paratroopers Soldier G and Soldier H, who claim Soldier F fired at civilians.
  • However, the defence argues that these accounts contradict each other, with Soldier G claiming Soldier F fired with an M1 carbine and Soldier H claiming Soldier F fired after moving aside from a waste ground.
  • The defence has questioned the reliability of Soldier H's statements, pointing out changes in his testimony over the years.
  • Soldier H has exercised his right against self-incrimination and will not be cross-examined, while Soldier G has died and his testimony cannot be challenged.
  • The defence has argued for the case to be dismissed, citing the lack of reliable evidence.
  • Soldier F has pleaded not guilty to the seven counts, including the murders of James Wray and William McKinney.
  • Key evidence described as "decisive" by the prosecution includes statements by Soldier G and Soldier H, which place Soldier F in Glenfada Park North.

Statistics:

  • 13 people were shot dead by the Parachute Regiment on Bloody Sunday in Londonderry on January 30, 1972.
  • Soldier F is charged with the murders of James Wray and William McKinney, as well as the attempted murders of four others.
  • Paul Mulholland KC represents the defence in the non-jury trial.

Sources:

  • News Letter: "Evidence from Bloody Sunday soldiers and civilians is contradictory, court told" (https://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/crime/evidence-from-bloody-sunday-soldiers-and-civilians-is-contradictory-court-told-5357612)
  • News Letter: "Government moves to block payouts to Gerry Adams and other Troubles detainees" (https://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/courts/government-moves-to-block-payouts-to-gerry-adams-and-other-troubles-detainees-5359401)

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