Man admits manslaughter over death of devoted dad in Emsworth
Stephen Harrington dies after vicious attack
Stephen Harrington, 47, was found with a serious head injury on Marlpit Lane on Saturday, 23 July 2022. He was rushed to hospital but tragically died two days later on 25 July.
Three charged, one dies before trial
Police launched a murder investigation and charged Thomas Goldring, Joseph Butler, and Tarin Linfield. The trio were due to face trial on 23 January 2023. But 21-year-old Goldring died in December 2022, forcing the court to drop evidence taken from him.
Guilty pleas change the course of trial
At Lewes Crown Court, Tarin Linfield, 21, pleaded guilty to manslaughter and conspiracy to steal, but denied murder. Joseph Butler, 23, admitted conspiracy to steal but denied murder. Both pleas were accepted. They will be sentenced on 3 March 2023 while both remain in custody.
Brutal blow with a piece of wood
The prosecution said the suspects targeted Stephen to steal from him. Police concluded Stephen died from a severe head blow, likely caused by a wooden object.
“This is a tragic case that has resulted in the sudden and heart-breaking death of a completely innocent and much-loved family man,” said Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Hicks.
“Only those present that night know the full truth. We hope this manslaughter conviction brings Stephen’s family some closure.”
