Prosecutors granted immunity to potential murderers in exchange for evidence against the rioters who hacked to death PC Keith Blakelock, the Old Bailey heard today.
Some were given “some degree of financial assistance” by the police, the court was told.
Rioters in the inner circle around the defenceless police officers were divided into “kickers and stabbers” by police investigating the murder.
Those suspected of kicking the policeman but not of carrying a weapon was considered for immunity in a “highly unusual decision”, said prosecutor Richard Whittam QC.
“Those involved in the attack were categorised as those that attacked with weapons and those that did not use weapons,” he said.
“These groups were often, inaccurately, referred to in shorthand by the phrase ‘Kickers and Stabbers.’
“If an individual took part in the assault, for instance by kicking – which on ordinary principles would be sufficient for a conviction for murder – but did not use a weapon he could be considered for immunity from prosecution for murder.
“His status within the (police) investigation would be eye witness, not suspect.”
Mr Whittam went on: “Some of the eye witnesses … fall into that category of people who would otherwise, were it not for the immunity, have been prosecuted for murder.
“They admit kicking PC Blakelock during the course of the attack that killed him, after having been told of the immunity and after having received independent legal advice.”
Some prosecution witnesses will give evidence using a false name, or pseudonym, the court heard.
The case continues.
