Rape trial abandoned

Tue, 24 Aug 2010

Douglas Courthouse

The trial of a man accused of Rape has had to be abandoned

Deemster Moyle has discharged the jury in the case against Gary John Beattie due to poor quality audio provided by the prosecution.

The Deemster said he could not ensure that a fair trial would be held on the basis of what the jury thought they had heard.

It was decided that it would not be fair to Mr Beattie to replay the interviews with the complainant as it may add extra significance to the evidence in the eyes of the jury.

There have been a number of delays in the trial already with expert witnesses not being able to agree on reports.

Mr Beattie's bail restrictions were altered but not lifted.

A new trial date has been set for November 29th.