Jury discharged in Cannock stabbing murder trial
The trial of a man accused of the murder of a widow who allegedly offered him shelter at her Cannock home has been halted.
Lucy Clews, aged 39, was found with multiple stab wounds by Staffordshire Police officers at her home, in Bath Road, in West Chadsmoor, on December 29, 2021 after her family reported concerns for her welfare.
Thomas Grant, 27, is accused of murdering Mrs Clews, whom he met by chance when he came out of prison on days earlier on Christmas Eve. Grant, of no fixed address, pleaded not guilty to murder.
After sitting for 19 days at Stafford Crown Court trial judge Kristina Montgomery KC discharged the jury on Monday. She praised the jurors for their "goodwill and engagement", and warned them not to discuss the case with anyone.
She adjourned the matter for a case management hearing followed by a new trial to be held later in the year. Reporting restrictions apply.
