Icah Peart QC secures acquittal for murder

Monday 4 April 2022

Icah Peart QC, of the Garden Court Chambers Criminal Defence Team, led Martin Liddiard and was instructed by Hockham Suthi of Riley Hayes Solicitors.

The case was reported on BBC News, ITV News and the local press.

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Five people, including two teenagers, have been cleared of murdering 14-year-old Dea-John Reid.

Two 15-year-old boys, a 16-year-old, Michael Shields, 36, and George Khan, 39, were found not guilty of murder at Birmingham Crown Court. Icah Peart QC represented Michael Shields.

A teenager from Birmingham, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been found guilty of manslaughter and the sentence has been adjourned until May 5.

Jurors heard Dea-John had been out with friends when one of his group was accused of trying to steal a bag.

A confrontation ensued, the trial heard, and in CCTV footage played to jurors, Dea-John was seen being chased, pursued by those armed with a wrench and a large kitchen knife.

A post-mortem examination confirmed Dea-John Reid was killed by a stab wound to the chest.

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