MEMBERS of the York jury who watched darts on TV instead of considering their verdict in a rape case are to escape punishment.
The Evening Press reported exclusively on Saturday how the trial of a York teenager, accused of raping a 27-year-old woman in her front garden, had collapsed because of the jury's actions.
A retrial in May was ordered by Judge Paul Hoffman, honorary recorder of York, with the cost of the trial's collapse put at more than £34,000.
Judge Hoffman said he was concerned that parts of the case had been discussed while not all the jury members were present, although he did not blame the jury for the "unfortunate" situation.
He said: "That (television) set is supposed to be in a state where it cannot be watched."
Now the Lord Chancellor's Department has confirmed that no action will be taken against members of the jury.
Updated: 16:21 Tuesday, January 15, 2002
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article