The Island’s Attorney General has spoken of his ‘relief’ after all criminal charges against him were dropped.
After a near four-year investigation, the prosecution said it had made an ‘informed and dispassionate assessment’ and it was no longer in the public interest to seek a further re-trial so would offer no evidence against 52 year-old Stephen Harding.
He had always denied a charge of perjury and committing acts against public justice and twice stood trial, only for the jury to be discharged after failing to reach a verdict on both occasions.
Mr Harding remains suspended pending disciplinary proceedings.
James Davis reports:
After the acquittal, now for some searching questions.
After being hauled through the courts, was the prosecution of Stephen Harding warranted or was it misguided, indeed was the whole process justified and in the public interest?
Exactly how much have these trials cost the taxpayer? And what potential damage has been caused to the Island’s reputation?
After yesterday’s (Mon) hearing in which he was formally cleared, Mr Harding said he was ‘shattered and very relieved’ after what had been an ‘extraordinarily distressing period for he and his family.’
He said he now needed a ‘period of quiet reflection’ and, in the light of possible disciplinary proceedings against him, he was unable to comment further.
Clip 1
Squash: Isle of Man contests European championships in Bucharest
Cricket: Isle of Man announces women's T20 side to face Guernsey
Netball: Four trophies decided in charity cup finale
'Steady demand' expected again for 2024 Parish Walk
Football: Adam Long pens new deal at AFC Fylde
Athletics: Mullarkey wins at Payton Jordan Invitational
