A British Army veteran known only as Soldier F has been found not guilty of murder and attempted murder in connection with Bloody Sunday, the only soldier ever prosecuted for the 1972 killings. Belfast Crown Court cleared the former lance corporal on all seven counts after a five-week trial.
Mr Justice Lynch ruled that the prosecution had failed to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt, citing the passage of nearly 54 years as a significant obstacle. He stated that paratroopers had 'lost all sense of military discipline' and shot unarmed civilians, but the case hinged on individual guilt. The key evidence from two fellow soldiers was deemed unreliable.
Families of the 13 victims expressed outrage, with William McKinney's brother saying justice had been denied and accusing the British state of complicity. Outside court, supporters of Soldier F hailed the verdict as ending a 'witch-hunt'. First Minister Michelle O'Neill called the outcome 'deeply disappointing'.
The judge noted that Soldiers G and H, whose statements formed the main evidence, were 'serially untruthful' and their testimony could not be properly tested due to delay. The trial was held without a jury, as permitted in exceptional cases.
Gavin Robinson of the Democratic Unionist Party said most troops served with honour. A UK government spokesperson acknowledged the judgment and reiterated a commitment to addressing the past while supporting veterans.
