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Prosecuting Homicide

Murder and manslaughter are two of the offences that constitute homicide.

Manslaughter can be committed in one of three ways:

  1. killing with the intent for murder but where there is provocation, diminished responsibility or a suicide pact.
  2. conduct that was grossly negligent given the risk of death, and resulted in death.
  3. conduct, taking the form of an unlawful act involving a danger of some harm, that caused death.

With some exceptions, the crime of murder is committed, where a person:

  • of sound mind and discretion (i.e. sane):
  • unlawfully kills (i.e. not self-defence or other justified killing)
  • any reasonable creature (human being)
  • in being (born alive and breathing through its own lungs)
  • under the Queen's Peace
  • with intent to kill or cause grievous bodily harm.

There are other specific homicide offences, for example, infanticide, causing death by dangerous driving, and corporate manslaughter.

Find out more about prosecuting homicide

Home » News Centre » Press Releases » Barton & Taylor guilty of axe murder of Anthony Walker

Barton & Taylor guilty of axe murder of Anthony Walker

30/11/2005

The horrific axe murder of teenager Anthony Walker was one of the worst cases seen by the reviewing lawyer in the case, Colin Davies, head of the serious and complex crime division for Merseyside Crown Prosecution Service.

Mr Davies said: "Anthony's murder is one of the most vicious attacks I have seen in years of prosecuting. Throughout my involvement I have been struck by the strength and courage of Anthony's family. The support we have received from Anthony's family, his Church and the whole community has been excellent."

Teenager Michael Barton was found guilty of the murder by a jury after pleading not guilty. His friend Paul Taylor changed his plea to guilty on the first day the pair were due to stand trial.

Mr Davies was involved in the case right from the start, giving advice to the police as the pair were interviewed.

He said: "Anthony's murder was a tragic waste of life. I hope the speed and strength of our response shows our dedication and commitment to tackling crime.

"I hope the people of Merseyside feel confident that when crime affects them we do all in our power to ensure their offenders are brought to justice. It illustrates how the police and CPS, supported by the community, can cut down on the time and anguish taken to bring those guilty to account for their crime."

"Working together from such an early stage has allowed the CPS and police to present this case with speed and strength, and shows our dedication and commitment to bringing offenders to justice.

"Our local community have played an important part in this case and have shown with this support their disgust at this crime.

"I would like to personally thank these people and those who came forward to give evidence in what has been a harrowing trial."

For further details contact CPS Press Office on 020 7796 8079.