Family of man found dead in Michael Barrymore’s pool hit out at his ‘disgusting’ win in battle to sue Essex police for millions
MICHAEL Barrymore’s court victory against police was branded “disgusting” yesterday by the father of the man found dead in his pool.
A High Court judgment meant the TV star — catchphrase “Awight” — could receive millions in damages from Essex Police over his wrongful arrest in 2007.
Barrymore was detained on suspicion of the murder and rape of dad-of-two Stuart Lubbock, 31.
But he was never charged and has always insisted he was innocent.
Police had argued he should receive just £1 nominal damages as the arrest, which the star says ruined his career, was deemed unlawful over a technical issue.
But Mr Justice Stuart-Smith, sitting in London, yesterday ruled against them, opening the way for Barrymore, 65, to pursue his claim for more than £2.4million.
Butcher Stuart was found dead in the pool at the former Strike It Lucky host’s home in Roydon, Essex, following a party in 2001.
A pathologist said he believed he suffered a sexual assault before his death and may have been held down in the water.
Stuart’s dad Terry, 72, has spent 16 years campaigning for justice.
He said from his care home yesterday: “The judgment today is disgusting.
“Barrymore has won his case in court but it doesn’t change what I think, that he knows more than he’s let on. I don’t think he should have got anything because the whole thing’s been a cover-up.
“I’ve never accused him of being responsible for Stuart’s death, but I’ve maintained my son was murdered and Barrymore could have helped police more than he did to catch his killers.
“The irony is he’s set for a big payout now while my family have had hardly any compensation.”
Essex Police were forced to admit the star’s arrest was unlawful because the arresting officer was not fully briefed on the case.
Barrymore did not attend the hearing and his publicist said he would not comment. Damages will be laid out at a future date.
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TIMELINE OF EVENTS
MARCH 2001: Stuart is found dead at Barrymore’s home.
OCTOBER 2001: Star cautioned for cannabis possession.
SEPTEMBER 2002: Stuart’s inquest records open verdict. Barrymore sacked by ITV.]
MARCH 2007: IPCC launch investigation into Essex Police handling of the case.
JUNE 2007: Barrymore, Jon Kenney and Justin Merritt arrested on suspicion of murder and rape of Stuart. No charges.
APRIL 2013: Star files £2.4m civil claim for wrongful arrest.
AUGUST 2017: Judge rules Barrymore entitled to damages.