Drugs key in murder probe

Matt Knight, project manager at drugs support agency Compass, has warned that detectives could find it hard to get drug users to talk about the Gillygate murders.

But he said members of York's drug community were as keen as anyone else to see the killer caught, and might be more likely to provide information if a trusted group like Compass was involved.

The victims of the brutal murder, Kevin Mulgrew, 38, and Daniel Wall, 27, were both known members of York's drug community.

Police have appealed to members of that community to come forward "in confidence", but have refused to say exactly what that means.

Mr Knight was unable to say whether he would be prepared to act as a "go-between" between the drugs community and murder squad detectives.

He said Compass's confidentiality and the anonymity of its clients had to be protected.

But he said he would be happy to discuss options with police, such as the setting up of a special Gillygate murder information hotline.

But Mr Knight said: "The drug user community wants to see whoever has done this brought to justice. They feel they might be next."

Detective Superintendent Javad Ali, who is heading he inquiry, said: "It is imperative that we receive as much information as possible from whatever source."

But York user Marvin Higgins, 33, said: "At the end of the day the police think we are scum. No one else looks after us, so we make sure we look after our own.

"A lot of us knew the two lads and we want to know what is going on with this. Helping people out works both ways, but this is all one-sided at the minute."

The battered bodies of Mr Mulgrew and Mr Wall were found in the flat on December 4.

Police want to trace tenant John Paul Marshall, who has not been seen for several days. They have warned the public not to approach him.

Anyone with information is asked to phone 01904 669430 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Updated: 10:51 Tuesday, December 16, 2003