Other News In Brief

Implants Chief Arrested

The former chief of the French company behind the breast implant scandal has been arrested. Jean-Claude Mas was responsible for the French company Poly Implant Prothese, which is accused of using dangerous industrial standard silicone in breast implants. Mr Claude Mas was detained at his residence in the Mediterranean coastal town of Six-Fours-Les-Plages shortly before dawn. The implants were pulled from the market in several countries including the UK amid fears they could rupture and leak silicone into the body. Last week surgeons' leaders said that women with PIP breast implants should “expect” to have them removed upon request. The Royal College of Surgeons said its advice “goes beyond current government” guidance for women who received implants from the now-closed firm PIP.

No Appeal For Juror Who Researched Defendant

The juror who was jailed for researching a defendant on the internet and passing on the allegations to the jury has been refused permission to appeal. Juror Theodora Dallas was found guilty of contempt of court for sharing her internet research on a defendant. The Ex University of Bedfordshire academic told jurors the man on assault charges at Luton Crown Court had previously been accused of rape. Earlier this week Dallas, who is from Greece and had claimed her English is "not that good", was jailed for six months for contempt of court. Dallas sought permission to appeal to the Supreme Court but this was refused.

Handbag Snatched In Newcastle

Police are appealing for witnesses after a handbag snatch in a Wallsend street in Newcastle. The incident happened on Wednesday, at 12.30pm on Myrtle Grove. A 42-year-old woman was walking along the street when she was approached from behind by two teenagers on cycles. They snatched a black handbag from her shoulder and made off towards Holly Avenue. The woman was shaken but otherwise uninjured. The offenders are described as white European teenagers, wearing jeans, and T-shirts. One of the bikes was a dull red colour. Police are appealing for witnesses anyone who was in the area and who may have seen or heard anything suspicious is asked to contact police. Any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 101 ext 69191 or ring the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(DW)