09/04/2003

Man jailed for McGoldrick murder

Former loyalist informer, Clifford McKeown is to serve 24 years in jail after being convicted of the murder of a Catholic taxi driver in July 1996.

Appearing at Belfast Crown Court today, the 44-year-old Craigavon man was convicted of murdering father-of-two Michael McGoldrick, whose body was found in his cab in a country lane just outside Lurgan, a day after he had picked up a fare in the town.

Last month the court heard that the killing had been a "birthday present" for former LVF leader Billy Wright, who was later murdered by the INLA in the Maze Prison.

Mr Justice Weatherup, who headed today's proceedings, described the murder as a "chilling execution" and said it was arranged to "secure a random death based on religious persuasion".

McKeown is already serving 12 years in jail for possessing guns. He showed no emotion as the verdict was passed.

(MB)

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