Man Charged Over Death Of PC

27/02/2013

The Crown Prosecution has today (27 February) authorised Greater Manchester Police to charge Westley Holland with the manslaughter of PC Gareth Francis on 20th January 2013.

Cheryl Hramiak, District Crown Prosecutor said: 

"PC Francis, who was off duty at the time, died after he was punched to the face and collapsed on Castle Street in Edgley shortly after 1.00 am.  He was returning from attending a football match earlier that evening. 

"Having carefully reviewed the evidence in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors, I conclude that there is a realistic prospect of conviction and it is in the public interest to charge Westley Holland with manslaughter.  He will appear before Stockport Magistrates on 28th February 2013. 

"Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Gareth Francis."