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Murder Trial: Deemster begins summing up evidence

Thu, 16 Apr 2015

Jurors in the trial of a Castletown man accused of murder have been asked to consider partial defences of provocation or diminished responsibility.

Yesterday, Deemster Alistair Montgomerie began summing up the evidence in the case against 46-year-old Ian Anderson, which started on March 16th.

He's accused of murdering 60-year-old Neil Roberts, who was from Ballabeg - his body was found at Anderson's home on Queen Street in December 2013.

Outlining both the prosecution and defence cases, the Deemster told jurors they must assess all evidence "critically", considering whether witnesses have been accurate and honest.

He highlighted a range of information, including; testimony from expert witnesses, phone records, audio recordings, photographs and the transcript of the 999 call.

Jurors were also given legal direction concerning both partial defences - these could lead to a charge of manslaughter, should they be accepted.

Anderson's defence counsel has argued there was a high level of provocation - due to the fact his wife was having an affair with Mr Roberts over an extended period of time.

However, the prosecution says he did "much, much more" than a reasonable man would have done in the circumstances.

Deemster Montgomerie will continue his summing up today before the jury is sent out to consider its verdict.

Ian Anderson denies murder - the trial continues.

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