The Crown Prosecution Service has confirmed it will not pursue a third trial against two brothers charged with assaulting a police officer at Manchester Airport, following two hung juries. Greater Manchester Police Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson stated he 'stands absolutely with [his] officers' but refrained from criticising the CPS over its decision.
Background of the Case
Brothers Mohammed Fahir Amaaz, 21, and Muhammad Amaad, 26, faced assault charges related to PC Zachary Marsden during an altercation at Terminal 2's car park pay station in July 2024. CCTV footage showed the brothers delivering multiple strikes to PC Marsden. The officers maintained they were acting in self-defence throughout the proceedings.
In May, a judge formally recorded not guilty verdicts after two separate juries failed to reach decisions. A week later, the CPS announced it would not seek new proceedings. Muhammad Amaad left court a free man, while Mohammed Fahir Amaaz remains in custody awaiting sentencing after being convicted of headbutting a man inside the terminal and assaulting two female officers.
Details of the Incident
The altercation began when officers attempted to detain the brothers. PC Marsden was filmed kicking Amaaz in the head after he had been subdued by a Taser stun gun. This video evidence was released publicly, sparking demonstrations. Additional CCTV footage later emerged showing the officers being assaulted shortly before the kick.
During the second trial, the jury deliberated for 19 hours and 48 minutes, including time allowed for majority verdicts, before indicating they could not reach a decision.
Prosecution Decision
Prosecuting barrister Paul Greaney KC informed the court that the decision not to proceed with a third trial was made at the 'highest level' of the CPS. He cited legislation establishing a 'clear presumption' against a third trial unless 'exceptional circumstances' existed and the matter was of 'extreme gravity'. The Manchester Evening News understands investigators had supported pursuing a third trial.
The CPS released a statement saying: 'The law is clear that any further retrial in these circumstances would be highly exceptional. After careful consideration, we have concluded that it is not in the public interest to seek another trial.'
Chief Constable's Response
Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson told the Manchester Evening News: 'The CPS have their own criteria upon which to make those decisions. I think candidly, clearly, I hold a view, but I don't think it fair that I express that view in the sense of claiming to be disappointed or otherwise.' He added: 'I do recognise that there is a balance here. And in fairness, we have had two very expensive jury trials, and there is a public interest test, which, you know, the CPS have to take into account.'
Watson emphasised his support for officers: 'I want everybody who's assaulted our officers to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, and generally speaking, that is what the CPS do on our behalf. And it's an important endeavour, because I have over 40 officers a week assaulted and it's so important that we support them in their realms. So, I stand absolutely with my officers. But there is a limit to my fairly being able to lay criticism at the door of other agencies.'
Sentencing and Further Proceedings
Mohammed Fahir Amaaz is scheduled for sentencing on June 26 at Liverpool Crown Court. He was found guilty of assaulting PC Ellie Cook and unarmed officer PC Lydia Ward, who sustained a fractured nose from a punch. Amaaz was recorded delivering 10 punches, two elbow strikes, and one kick during the incident.
PC Marsden rejected defence claims that he had used 'unlawful force' and was part of an 'out of control' team. He stated he acted 'with the utmost professionalism and bravery' and was concerned his Glock 17 semi-automatic pistol might be seized. The police watchdog's investigation into PC Marsden's conduct remains ongoing, and he may face disciplinary proceedings.
