Judge sides with comic in wrongful arrest case

Michael Barrymore is to receive ‘more than nominal damages’  over his wrongful arrest over the death of Stuart Lubbock at the comedian’s home.

The value of the settlement has not yet been set. The entertainer had sought £2.4million, claiming the arrest ruined his career. But Essex police said he should only receive a nominal £1 payout.

High Court judge Mr Justice Stuart-Smith today sided with  65-year-old Barrymore.

The comic was detained ten years ago on suspicion of the rape and murder of Stuart Lubbock, whose body was found in the swimming pool after a party at Barrymore's home in Roydon, Essex, in 2001. No one has yet been brought to justice over the death.

In a statement issued after the hearing, Essex Police said:  ‘Today's judgment must not overshadow the questions which are still unanswered for Mr Lubbock's family and friends. Sixteen years on they still need to know what happened to Stuart on that night, how he was injured, and who is responsible for his death.’

Published: 18 Aug 2017