An Irish News report today [subs req] provides an interesting update to the charges against Marvin Canning. A brother-in-law of the deputy First Minister, Mr Canning faces seven charges in connection with an abduction and assault in Mullingar, Co Westmeath, last April – including false imprisonment, kidnapping and grevious bodily harm with intent. According to today’s report, the Crown lawyer, Douglas Edmondson, told the court that “police described the death of 53-year-old Michael [Gerard?] Hampson, also from Derry, as suspicious. He was naked when discovered, the court heard.” Hampson was wanted for questioning about the abduction/assault when he went missing in December last year and, when his body was found, police declined to say if foul play was suspected.From the Irish News report. [subs req]
Mr Edmondson had also argued there was a risk of witness interference and alleged that three men claiming to be from the IRA had warned an associate of Mr Cranston that he was to drop the case.
The report also notes that, despite previously being refused bail
During the couple’s ordeal demands were made for Euro170,000 (£131,00), it was claimed. But defence counsel Joe Brolly said the strength of evidence against Mr Canning was questionable.
The judge said that as well as the [cash] £10,000 surety requirement, Mr Canning was to stay at an address in Middlesex and have no contact with his co-accused or the victims. He was also ordered to surrender his Irish passport and banned from applying for a British one.
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