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Not Guilty verdict for man accused of murder.

Francis Mitchenson was acquitted of murder and of arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered after a 4 week trial.

Mr Mitchenson stood trial with a co-accused, David Platt. Together they were charged with the murder of a convicted sex offender who had been seriously assaulted and partially strangled, before being dowsed with white spirit and set on fire.

Francis Mitchenson had always denied participating in this horrific attack; blaming his co-accused and others who were resident in their hostel accommodation. Paul Reid QC & Richard Dawson, of Lincoln House Chambers, represented Mr Mitchenson, in this cut-throat defence. He was found Not Guilty by a jury at Manchester Crown Court after a trial listing 4 weeks. David Platt was found guilty of both charges and received a life sentence with a 30 year minimum period to serve.