Not Guilty verdict in Old Bailey murder trial

Paul Mendelle QC leading Michael Neofytou, secured not guilty verdicts on murder and manslaughter at the Old Bailey.
The defendant, Raymond Sculley, and two friends were waiting on their bikes outside a fast food restaurant in East London. The victim, Zdenek Makar had a disagreement in the restaurant with a fourth friend. Shortly after leaving, there was a confrontation during which Mr Sculley struck Mr Makar several times with a bicycle lock he had with him.
Two of the friends who had been with Mr Sculley gave evidence for the prosecution. The pathologist confirmed that Mr Makar, who had been drinking, died from a single blow from the lock of moderate force, the equivalent of a firm punch; and that the blow might not have been fatal if Mr Makar had not been drinking.
Mr Sculley, 29, a painter and decorator of good character, gave evidence in his own defence, maintaining that he had acted in self-defence/defence of another.
The jury returned not guilty verdicts for both murder and manslaughter.
Paul Mendelle QC and Michael Neofytou were instructed by Kathy Murphy of Kalber Struckley. Further reports can be read by clicking here