A man involved in one of New Zealand’s worst miscarriages of justice, Stephen Stone, has been released on bail after spending more than two decades in prison.
His lawyer Annabel Maxwell-Scott said it was a “huge moment” for her client.
“Twenty-six years in custody for a crime he’s always said he hasn’t committed. The world is a very different place from 1999, so it’s going to be an awful adjustment for him. But we’re very pleased this moment has come, we’re sad it’s taken so long, but we’re here now.”
She said the first thing Stone plans to do is have “a big feed”.
“He really wants to get to work straight way, he needs to keep himself occupied, he’s very aware of the pressures of coming out of prison after this amount of time.”
Two weeks ago, Stone’s convictions for double murder and rape were quashed. However, the 54-year-old could still face a retrial. (Source: 1News)
Two weeks ago the Court of Appeal quashed Stone’s convictions for the murders of Deane Fuller-Sandys and Leah Stephens, as well as her rape. Three others connected with the case – Gail Maney, Colin Maney and Mark Henrikensen – were acquitted.
The court found major failings by police to disclose documents led to a miscarriage of justice.
It also ordered a retrial for Stone because he confessed to the crimes in prison. Stone said the confession wasn’t genuine and the Parole Board agreed it was a “cynical ploy” to help his release. But the judges said the veracity could only be tested by a jury in a retrial.
The Auckland Crown Solicitor is now considering whether Stone should be tried again.
Maxwell-Scott said she’d be surprised if there was a retrial.
“There is no evidence left. The two crucial witnesses have been completely discredited, immunity was granted as we think on a spurious basis and should be rescinded.”
She said the time in prison had taken an “incredible toll” on Stone.
“He’s missed his children growing up, birth of his grandchildren. He’s missed the lion share of his life.”
Stone is now aged 54.
