Winchester Crown Court jury find schoolboy not guilty of murdering Hampshire teenager
A 15-year-old boy who was accused of stabbing James Laurie, 17, from Southampton, has been found not guilty of his murder by a jury at Winchester Crown Court.
The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed weapon at a previous hearing and has been remanded in custody to be sentenced for this offence at a later date.
The incident took place on Lindsay Road, Thornhill, on Sunday January 19 this year (2020).
Detective Inspector Lee McClellan, who led the investigation, said: ‘We are obviously disappointed by today’s verdict however we respect the jury’s decision. This was a tragic incident that led to the loss of a young life.
‘This case highlights the dangers that come with carrying knives and the devastation these senseless acts cause, not only to those involved but also to their friends and families.’
James Payne chief executive officer on behalf of Police and Crime Commissioner, Michael Lane, added: ‘The harm caused by violence is far reaching and devastating for all those touched by it.
‘It is important that police, agencies and communities work together to steer young people away from violence and to support them in ways that help them to thrive, reach their full potential and be safe.’