Chloe Mitchell's Family Expresses 'Absolute Relief' as Murder Trial Set for March
The family of Chloe Mitchell, a 21-year-old woman found dead in Ballymena in June 2023, has spoken of their "absolute relief" after learning that the trial of the man accused of her murder will proceed next month. The trial had been at risk of delay due to an ongoing industrial action by criminal barristers over legal aid fees, but an agreement was reached over the weekend to exempt this specific case from the strike.
Trial Date Confirmed Amidst Legal Turmoil
During a brief hearing at Belfast Magistrates' Court on Monday morning, Judge Madam Justice McBride described the development as "excellent news" and a "relief" for both the Mitchell family and the defendant, Brandon John Rainey. The 29-year-old, whose address was given as HMP Maghaberry and who is formerly of James Street in Ballymena, has been charged with murdering Ms. Mitchell in June 2023. He has pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Judge McBride acknowledged that some preparation work remains, including matters related to witnesses, disclosure, and expert testimony. She officially set the trial start date for March 9, noting that the proceedings are likely to take place in Belfast. This represents a slight shift from the previously anticipated date of February 23, providing the family additional time to prepare emotionally and logistically.
Family's Emotional Response and Political Advocacy
Speaking outside the court alongside her aunt, Linda McDowell, Nadine Mitchell, Chloe's sister, conveyed the family's profound emotions. "We have been through quite a lot obviously, the past two and a half years, but more so these past few weeks with the ongoing barristers strike," she stated. Nadine expressed that the family would be "over the moon" that the trial is finally moving forward, adding, "I have no words other than, full of emotions inside that don't seem to be coming out."
Nadine Mitchell extended heartfelt thanks to those who advocated on the family's behalf, particularly Alliance MLA Sian Mulholland. Ms. Mulholland, alongside North Antrim assembly colleagues including UUP leader Jon Burrows and TUV MP Jim Allister, worked to secure the trial's exemption from the industrial action. "I can't thank them enough for everything that they have done," Nadine emphasized.
Political Support and a Mother's Struggle
Also addressing the media outside the court, Ms. Mulholland praised the Mitchell family's "unbelievable" resolve. She revealed that she and Justice Minister Naomi Long had visited the Mitchell family's home to understand the impact of both losing Chloe and the subsequent delays. "This is bigger than politics and to actually get this family justice," Ms. Mulholland asserted.
Later, in the Assembly chamber, Ms. Mulholland directly addressed Chloe's mother, Georgina Mitchell, who had confided that she felt she was "failing" her daughter every day the trial was delayed. "Today, every day since she passed, and every day going forward, you have done nothing but fight for Chloe and you should be incredibly proud of yourself, because there is no way you have failed your daughter," Ms. Mulholland declared. She reaffirmed her commitment, stating, "We continue to stand with the Mitchell family as they fight for justice."
The case continues to draw significant attention as the community awaits the commencement of the trial, hoping for closure and justice for Chloe Mitchell and her grieving family.
