The Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) will obtain a DNA sample from serial killer Levi Bellfield as part of an inquiry into whether Michael Stone was wrongly convicted of the 1996 murders of Lin Russell and her six-year-old daughter Megan.
Bellfield, who is serving whole-life tariffs for multiple murders including that of 13-year-old Milly Dowler, has claimed he was the real killer. The CCRC stated: "We intend to obtain a sample from Mr Bellfield. No date has been set for this."
Background of the Case
Michael Stone has maintained his innocence since his 1998 conviction for the murders of Lin, 45, and Megan, as well as the attempted murder of Megan's sister Josie, then nine, who survived the attack. The DNA tests follow advances in forensic science that may link previously unidentified male genetic material from the crime scene to an individual.
Bellfield's solicitor, Theresa Clark, confirmed: "I'm sure he'd agree to the DNA test. He's going to cooperate." Stone's DNA was taken by investigators on Thursday as part of his application to the CCRC.
Evidence and New Techniques
Exhibits from the original crime scene include part of a shoe lace used to bind victims and sticks. However, a lunchbox containing a bloody fingerprint has been lost. Karen Todner, Stone's solicitor, noted: "There's a whole range of things that can be done now."
Todner explained that earlier DNA testing identified two categories of male DNA at the scene: one belonging to Lin's husband Shaun, and another unidentified. "New techniques possibly allow this to be matched to a person," she said.
Witness Credibility and Previous Convictions
The key witness against Stone was Damien Daly, who claimed Stone confessed in prison. Daly was later convicted of murder. Todner argued: "The only evidence against him is from a person serving life for murder and whom the jury in that case disbelieved. There is nothing else against Michael Stone."
Bellfield's credibility is also in question. He has confessed to the Russell murders, retracted, and confessed again. He has also claimed responsibility for other crimes, including the abduction and murder of Elizabeth Chau, which police disbelieved.
Impact and Criticism
Stone's original convictions were overturned, but another jury reconvicted him. The CCRC has faced criticism for failings, including in the Andrew Malkinson case, where he was wrongly imprisoned for 17 years.
