Pair will give no evidence in Telford murder trial
A man accused of murdering Telford woman Davinia Loynton, and his partner - who denies providing him with a false alibi - have both chosen not to give evidence during their trial.
Judge Paul Glenn warned the defence counsel of both Kevin Hyden and Emma Lucas that the jury "may draw inferences" from their decision.
The prosecution alleges that Hyden tortured 59-year-old Miss Loynton in her home to get hold of the PIN numbers for her bank cards before killing her.
Hyden, 35, of Glebe Street, Wellington, Telford, denies a charge of murdering Miss Loynton on 20 September last year.
His partner Lucas, 39, of Keats Avenue, Stafford, denies perverting the course of justice by providing Hyden with a false alibi.
Both defendants have appeared in the dock together at Stafford Crown Court during the trial. As the prosecution brought its case to a close yesterday, letters seized by police from Hyden addressed to Lucas revealed that he had told her what to say to police.
One dated October 15 last year stated: "I had a visit off my solicitors today.
"You're gonna have to say you was with me on the grass.
"When we got by the wall I found a bag you told me to leave it alone. Because your statement didn't back it up. That's all you've got to say."
He added that he must have been alone that morning.
The jury was also told how Lucas gave police letters she had received off Hyden following this date.
Another from him said: "You know I'm innocent. I am innocent apart from picking up that card and phone."
Their decision not to give evidence means that today will see the start of the closing speeches by the prosecution and the defence.
The trial has heard Hyden told police he found a handbag containing keys, a phone, bank cards and PIN numbers on a field by his flat in Glebe Street.
He withdrew a total of more than £2,700 from the bank accounts and used the cash to buy cocaine and other items, the court was told.
During six interviews with police he denied murdering Miss Loynton.
Miss Loynton's body was found rolled up in her living room rug by distraught friends and colleagues after she failed to show up for work the following Monday.
The trial continues.
