Cavalry trooper cleared of supplying drugs to a friend who later died
A Household Cavalry trooper has left court with his reputation and army career intact after being cleared of supplying drugs.
Oliver Bramwell had been accused of giving cocaine to his close friend Kieran Bainbridge, who collapsed with a heart attack triggered by the drug and died three days later.
The 24-year-old was unanimously found not guilty by the jury after a five day trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court of supplying cocaine to Mr Bainbridge and two other men. He had denied responsibility since the tragedy occurred over 18 months ago.
Trooper Bramwell, joined the Life Guards in 2013 and was described by his Commanding Officer in a character reference to the court as a 'motivated and capable soldier' with a bright future.
He told the court that he had only taken cocaine once in his life. He had realised it was a 'terrible' mistake that had never been repeated.
Judge Amjad Nawaz told the soldier, who had no previous convictions, that he was free to resume his army career which had been on hold since he was accused of the offence.
An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated Mr Bramwell had been found guilty. We are happy to clarify that is not the case.
