Judge told of death of robbery accused
The case against a man accused of robbing a pensioner in Wem has been discontinued after a judge heard his co-accused has since died.
Wayne Watton, 22, appeared at Shrewsbury Crown Court (Thurs) charged with robbery of £60 on February 3 last year.
Prosecuting barrister Mr Earl Pinnock told the hearing that Watton had played a minor role in the incident that that co-defendant Shane Warner, 27, had passed away and that the crown would offer no evidence as a result.
Judge Peter Barrie told Watton, of Higher Heath, Whitchurch, that he was free to go.
"As you have heard the prosecution has offered no evidence against you in the circumstances and I direct a verdict of not guilty should be given," the judge said.
The case related to an incident, in Wem, where a pensioner aged in his 80s was allegedly robbed in his home.
