02/10/2008

Rhys Jones Accused Trial Begins

A teenager accused of murdering a Liverpool schoolboy is to go on trial today.

Rhys Jones, aged 11, was shot dead on August 22 last year as he was making his way homes from football training in Croxteth Park, Liverpool.

Eighteen-year-old Sean Mercer, of Good Shepherd Close, Croxteth, is to stand trial at Liverpool Crown Court, along with six others who are accused of assisting him.

Mercer has denied the murder.

Three teenagers, who are too young to be named, will join the 18-year-old in the dock, as will James Yates, 20, of Dodman Road; Gary Kays, 25, of Mallard Close; and Melvin Coy, 25, of Abbeyfield Drive, all Croxteth. All deny the charges.

Meanwhile, in addition to the trial, four others accused as part of the inquiry are due to appear separately at Liverpool Crown Court.

Janette Mercer, 49 - Sean Mercer's mother with whom he lived, James Yates's parents Francis Yates, 48, and Marie Yates, 50, from Dodman Road will appear in court facing charges of perverting the course of justice.

James Hughes, 22, of Willow Way, Croxteth is also accused with perverting the course of justice.

The murder trial is due to last between six and eight weeks.

(JM)

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