29/07/2011

Jefferies Libel Claims Means 'Substantial Damages'

The High Court has ruled that two tabloid newspapers broke the law in their reporting of Jo Yeates' murder.

Christopher Jefferies, Ms Yeates' neighbour, was proven innocent after being named as a suspect by The Daily Mirror and the Sun. They were later found in contempt of court.

Mr Jefferies has accepted "substantial damages" from eight newspapers in separate libel claims.

His lawyer confirmed his acceptance of an undisclosed sum and public apology.

Ms Yeates, 25, was found on Christmas day in Longwood Lane, Failand, eight days after she was reported missing from her home in Clifton, Bristol. A post-mortem examination revealed she had been strangled.

Mr Jefferies was arrested on suspicion of murder on December 30 but later released without charge.

(BMcN/GK)

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