Why Was Barry George Cleared?

Barry George left the UK for Ireland to avoid the media glare and attention he received following the high profile murder case of former Crimewatch presenter, Jill Dando.

After spending eight years in prison having been found guilty of Dando’s murder in 2000, George walked free in 2008.

Dando’s profile and popularity ensured high public interest in the case. When no motive could be found and no evidence emerged from criminals or British intelligence of a contract or conspiracy to kill Dando, police began to reassess evidence that had been set aside at the start of the inquiry.

The only non-circumstantial evidence was a single particle of firearm discharge residue—a speck that matched the ammunition used in the killing.

He was convicted of murder but the forensic evidence was later discounted and his conviction was judged unsafe by the Court of Appeal and quashed in 2007. After a retrial, he was acquitted on 1 August 2008.

His claims for compensation for wrongful imprisonment have been dismissed.