Boy accused of murdering Southampton teen James Laurie: Not guilty

The 15-year-old was charged with murder after James, 17, died of a single stab wound on January 19 this year.

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After a two week trial, the jury members delivered their verdict shortly before 1pm today.

Printed T-shirts in memory of James Laurie

They found the teen, from Portsmouth not guilty, of murder and not guilty of the lesser charge of manslaughter.

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The boy who cannot be named for legal reasons previously pleaded guilty to the possession of a bladed article in a public place and will be sentenced at a later date.

Until then he will be remanded in custody. 

James Laurie was 17-year-old when he died

Commenting on the verdict, Detective Inspector Lee McClellan said: “We are obviously disappointed by today’s verdict however we respect the jury’s decision.

“This was a tragic incident that led to the loss of a young life."

Police carry out investigations in Lindsay Road on the morning of January 19

“This case highlights the dangers that come with carrying knives and the devastation these senseless acts cause, not only to those involved but also to their friends and families.”

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James Payne CEO on behalf of Police and Crime Commissioner, Michael Lane, added: “The harm caused by violence is far-reaching and devastating for all those touched by it.

"It is important that police, agencies and communities work together to steer young people away from violence and to support them in ways that help them to thrive, reach their full potential and be safe.

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“Through the work of the Violence Reduction Unit, we have heard the voices of young people in Southampton, the community, and those who work with them."

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"This community engagement has helped the partnership to gain a greater understanding of the drivers of violence, and to establish what local projects and initiatives are already delivering successful outcomes and where more resources or different approaches are needed to provide that early intervention and reduce violence.”

John Montague, Senior District Crown Prosecutor for CPS Wessex said: "This is a tragic death that will have a lifelong impact on the friends and families of the deceased.

“If you believe someone is carrying a knife illegally, you must call 999 immediately. You could save someone’s life.”