Acquittal of GMP Officer Following Oldham Pursuit Case.

After an 8-day trial at Chester Crown Court, Sam Green KC’s client, PC Mark Burrows of Greater Manchester Police’s Tactical Vehicle Intercept Unit, was acquitted by a jury of charges of causing death by dangerous driving and causing death by careless driving.

The case arose from the pursuit of a stolen Audi in Oldham, during which a tragic collision occurred resulting in the death of Heather Smedley. At the time of the incident, PC Burrows was driving an unmarked VW Golf with emergency equipment activated.

The driver of the stolen Audi, Marcel Doyle, is already serving a 14-year sentence for causing death by dangerous driving, following findings that his manner and speed of driving in an attempt to evade capture caused the fatal collision.

Sam Green KC, instructed by Chris Fallows of JMW Solicitors, led the defence in this significant case, securing the acquittal after careful and detailed advocacy before the jury. Chris Fallows is widely recognised for his extensive experience representing police officers in serious and high-profile criminal and misconduct proceedings.

In response to the verdict, GMP Assistant Chief Constable Chris Sykes said:

“Mark Burrows went to work that day like any other day – intent on serving the public and keeping them safe from those who seek to do harm. It is nothing short of tragic that an innocent woman died in the course of those duties.

“Only one man was responsible for Heather’s death that day and he’s already behind bars.

“The impact of this incident on PC Burrows is lifelong and has been compounded by a criminal investigation.”

For further information regarding Sam Green KC’s practice and availability, please contact his clerks at St Pauls Chambers.