A CHARGE against a woman accused of murdering a homeless drug addict was dropped yesterday.
Defence lawyers said there was no evidence to convict Shelly Hill, of Lancaster Road, Grangetown, of the murder of Robert "Swampy" Parkin, 29.
Last week, the prosecution's chief witness, Nicola Richardson, said Miss Hill had merely tapped Mr Parkin with her foot to check if he was still alive. Yesterday, Martin Bethel QC, prosecuting, told Teesside Crown Court that he had decided not to proceed against Miss Hill, 24.
Steven Small, 33, of Holborn Park, Stockton, and Brian Lancaster, 32, of no fixed address but originally from Hartlepool, deny the murder of Mr Parkin, on May 8. The case continues.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article