Phone hacking trial: Ex-reporter Dan Evans reveals 'enormous conspiracy' of 2010

 
Conspiracy: Dan Evans pleaded guilty to phone hacking charges
29 January 2014
WEST END FINAL

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A News of the World reporter signed a sworn statement claiming that he did not intend to hack interior designer Kelly Hoppen’s mobile phone but had misdialed because of "sticky keys", the Old Bailey heard today.

But Dan Evans told the jury the witness statement he signed in 2010 was part of “an enormous conspiracy which I have been caught up in”.

Evans came under fierce cross-examination in the phone hacking trial today by Timothy Langdale QC, representing former NoW editor Andy Coulson and accused Evans of lying and attempting to get immunity from prosecution.

Evans admitted lying in a statement for court proceedings brought by Miss Hoppen.

“You decided to deny the truth at a very early stage,” said Mr Langdale.

“I’m ashamed to say I did,” said Evans.

“You advanced the suggestion in your sworn witness statement that it was due to sticky keys that you dialled Miss Hoppen’s mobile on your mobile. It was untrue,” said Mr Langdale.

Evans replied: “It was a document drafted by NoW lawyers, my employers at the time. What you are saying is correct, but there was an enormous conspiracy which I have been caught up with. I was toeing the party line, the company line.”

Evans has pleaded guilty to four charges, including two counts of phone hacking and making a false statement in the Kelly Hoppen High Court case.

Coulson, 45, and six others, including Rebekah Brooks, deny all the charges against them.

The trial continues.

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