Sir Alan Bates has raised concerns about the conviction of a postmaster, Robin Garbutt, who was found guilty of murdering his wife, Diana Garbutt, in 2010. Garbutt’s legal team argues that the evidence linking him to the crime, based on financial motives, has been discredited due to the Horizon scandal. Post Office campaigners supporting Garbutt, including Lee Castleton, Janet Skinner, and Seema Davindra, believe in his innocence.
Jane Metcalfe, a friend advocating for Garbutt, stated that fellow campaigners visited him in prison and are convinced of his innocence. New evidence has emerged, including discrepancies in the timeline of events on the day of the murder. Garbutt’s legal team points out inconsistencies that cast doubt on his guilt, such as the lack of incriminating DNA evidence and the questionable timeline of events.
Key witnesses have provided testimony that challenges the prosecution’s narrative, suggesting that Garbutt may not have had the opportunity to commit the murder and dispose of evidence as claimed. The case has garnered attention from supporters who believe in Garbutt’s innocence, leading to a reconsideration of his conviction by the Criminal Case Review Commission.
North Yorkshire Police have refrained from commenting on Garbutt’s appeal while the review process is ongoing. The case remains under scrutiny, with the potential for a retrial based on the new evidence presented.
