Arthur Brumhill murder: Man cleared of 1993 pet shop killing

7 March 2017

A man has been cleared of murdering an elderly pet shop worker more than 20 years ago.

Stuart Jenkins, 41, of Ossett, West Yorkshire, had been charged with killing Arthur Brumhill, 76, in Northampton in 1993.

Mr Brumhill was found dead in the basement of Denton's pet and garden shop. He had 26 injuries and his body was covered in straw.

Speaking outside Northampton Crown Court, Mr Jenkins said: "I'm relieved."

Arthur Brumhill was found dead in the basement of Denton's pet and garden shop

Mr Jenkins worked at the pet shop for about a month in 1992, aged 17, on a youth training scheme.

The former army sergeant was arrested at the time of Mr Brumhill's death but was later released. He was re-arrested and charged in May 2015.

"It's been a long two years. It's been two years of not knowing where you are," he said after his acquittal.

'Seeking justice'

His wife Louise said they send their condolences to the family of Mr Brumhill.

DCI Louise Hemingway said she was disappointed for Arthur Brumhill's family

"We hope they do get justice," she added.

Northamptonshire Police said they remain "committed" to forensic developments in the case.

DCI Louise Hemingway, who led the investigation, said: "I'm really disappointed for Arthur's family. They have waited for 24 years.

"There was definitely enough evidence to bring it to trial. It was the right thing to do for Arthur, for his family and in seeking justice.

"This was an awful murder. If we do get any opportunities to investigate [further] we will."