17/11/2008

Rhys Jones Accused Declines To Give Evidence

The alleged killer of murdered schoolboy Rhys Jones, will not be giving evidence in his own defence, a court has heard.

Sean Mercer, 18, has declined to offer any evidence, his barrister, Richard Pratt QC, told Liverpool Crown Court.

Today, after the close of the prosecution case, Mercer's legal team told the jury he would not be going onto the witness stand and they would be offering no other evidence on his behalf.

Mr Pratt said: "Mr Mercer exercises the right not to call any evidence."

High Court judge Mr Justice Irwin said: "I am sure you will have advised him fully about the implications of that and that inferences may be drawn from that."

Mr Pratt responded: "I have, My Lord."

The decision means the prosecution case is now complete.

Mercer, of good Shepherd Close, Croxteth, Liverpool, denies the murder of 11-year-old Rhys in August last year.

James Yates, 20, of Dodman Road and Nathan Quinn, 18, of Wickett Close, both Croxteth; Gary Kays, 25, of Mallard Close and Melvin Coy, 24, of Abbeyfield Drive, both West Derby, Liverpool, are accused of assisting an offender along with Boy M, 16, and Boy K, 17, who cannot be named. All six deny the charges.

The case continues.

(JM)

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