Caitlin Pike
Sky and ITN managed to overturn a Section 39
order banning the identification of a 17-year-old Liverpool youth
accused of the racially-motivated murder of a black teenager.
order banning the identification of a 17-year-old Liverpool youth
accused of the racially-motivated murder of a black teenager.
Michael
Barton appeared at Knowsley Magistrates’ Court on Friday morning when a
Section 39 order was made protecting his identity. Paul Taylor,
aged 20, was also charged with murder in connection with the death of
Anthony Walker who was killed with an axe as he walked home with his
girlfriend.
Barton appeared at Knowsley Magistrates’ Court on Friday morning when a
Section 39 order was made protecting his identity. Paul Taylor,
aged 20, was also charged with murder in connection with the death of
Anthony Walker who was killed with an axe as he walked home with his
girlfriend.
ITN and Sky’s solicitor Jon
Oakley from Brabners Chaffe Street said: “Restriction orders are a
sensible way to protect juveniles, however in this case there were
special circumstances as everyone already knew who Michael Barton was.
Oakley from Brabners Chaffe Street said: “Restriction orders are a
sensible way to protect juveniles, however in this case there were
special circumstances as everyone already knew who Michael Barton was.
“The case has attracted a lot of media attention.
Not only does it involve an alleged racist murder, but Barton’s brother
is also a Premiership footballer and his appeal for the pair to turn
themselves in was widely reported. There is also the fact that Barton’s
birthday is in March so by the time it comes to trial he will already
be 18.”
His Honour Judge Globe QC accepted their arguments.
Not only does it involve an alleged racist murder, but Barton’s brother
is also a Premiership footballer and his appeal for the pair to turn
themselves in was widely reported. There is also the fact that Barton’s
birthday is in March so by the time it comes to trial he will already
be 18.”
His Honour Judge Globe QC accepted their arguments.
Jon Oakley added: “The decision at 4.25pm came
less than six hours after we were first instructed and well in time for
our clients’ evening news bulletins.”
less than six hours after we were first instructed and well in time for
our clients’ evening news bulletins.”
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