OMBUDSMAN LAUNCHES INQUIRY INTO OMAGH BOMB WITNESSES
Ombudsman launches inquiry into Omagh bomb witnesses
THE Police Ombudsman has launched an inquiry into the conduct of two key Crown witnesses in the Omagh bomb case.
Forensics officer Fiona Cooper and Det Ch Insp Philip Marshall gave evidence at the trial of Sean Hoey. During it both admitted changing their statements on how some evidence was gathered. Hoey of Jonesborough, denies 58 charges, including the 29 murders in Omagh.
Forensic evidence is a vital part of the case against him.
The prosecution claims that the south Armagh man made the bomb timers used in Omagh and in a series of other attacks.
Mr Marshall and Ms Cooper admitted they had "beefed up" their original statements to suggest that specialist forensic precautions had been taken at an explosives find, when in fact, they had not.
Nuala O'Loan, the Police Ombudsman, has now launched a formal investigation.
Her investigators are examining the transcripts of the evidence given by the witnesses and have also requested other relevant documents.
The judge has taken the unusual step of ruling that the investigation into the conduct of witnesses can take place while the trial continues.
The ombudsman may request to speak to Mr Justice Weir about his concerns.
THE Police Ombudsman has launched an inquiry into the conduct of two key Crown witnesses in the Omagh bomb case.
Forensics officer Fiona Cooper and Det Ch Insp Philip Marshall gave evidence at the trial of Sean Hoey. During it both admitted changing their statements on how some evidence was gathered. Hoey of Jonesborough, denies 58 charges, including the 29 murders in Omagh.
Forensic evidence is a vital part of the case against him.
The prosecution claims that the south Armagh man made the bomb timers used in Omagh and in a series of other attacks.
Mr Marshall and Ms Cooper admitted they had "beefed up" their original statements to suggest that specialist forensic precautions had been taken at an explosives find, when in fact, they had not.
Nuala O'Loan, the Police Ombudsman, has now launched a formal investigation.
Her investigators are examining the transcripts of the evidence given by the witnesses and have also requested other relevant documents.
The judge has taken the unusual step of ruling that the investigation into the conduct of witnesses can take place while the trial continues.
The ombudsman may request to speak to Mr Justice Weir about his concerns.
Further Information
Publisher: ULSTER HERALD
Ref: UH/1887
Published Date: 11-Jan-07
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