Andrew Jones inquest: Parents' anger at "cowards"

Dec 13 2008

THE parents of a teenager killed by a single punch on a night out in Liverpool attacked the “cowards” they claim have shielded his killer’s identity.

Andrew and Christine Jones spoke after the inquest into the death of their son Andrew, 18, recorded a verdict of unlawful killing.

Andrew, from Cherry Lane, Walton, was attacked punched in the face and smashed his head on the ground in the early hours of March 9, 2003. He died the following day after suffering a massive head injury.

James Roberts, then 20 and from Huyton, was originally charged with Andrew’s death, but was acquitted part-way through a trial on the direction of the judge.

Earlier in the week, witness Simone Simpson identified another man, Lee Paul, as the man responsible for punching Andrew when she gave evidence to Liverpool coroner’s court.

Mr Paul, who has never been charged, denied striking Andrew and said he had no idea who might have done it.

James Roberts told the hearing yesterday he did not punch Andrew, but said he could not recall the event or seeing Andrew lying on the floor.

Under questioning, he denied taking a “fake rap” for the killing or that he and friend Neil Jones had fabricated an alleged confession to mislead police. It is possible the CPS may now review the case.

In recording his verdict, Liverpool coroner Andre Rebello said some of the witnesses in the inquest could have been more forthcoming, adding “all we can do is pray for them.” He said: “There are some decent people in that group who have been honest in the witness box and they must not be stigmatised by the company with which they keep.”

A statement after the inquest by solicitor Mark George, who represented the family, said: “No parent should ever have to bury their child.

“Andrew’s family are pleased that through their inquest it has been possible to show his death for what it was – an unlawful killing.

“We are especially grateful to Simone Simpson who told the truth about the incident and to Laura Harpur who tried to help Andrew as he lay dying.

“Unfortunately the same cannot be said for a number of other witnesses.

“We know the man who killed Andrew has been sitting in this court this week, and it is clear to all who heard the evidence who that person is.

“His friends showed themselves to be cowards who showed contempt for the court and for the memory of Andrew.”