Lawyers file for charges against Bloody Sunday paratroopers

LAWYERS Madden & Finucane, which represents up to 10 Bloody Sunday families, have confirmed they have submitted files calling for the British paratroopers behind the 1972 killings be prosecuted.
Peter Madden, speaking for the Belfast law firm said “files requesting that the authorities should prosecute those responsible for the murders and attempted murders” on Bloody Sunday were lodged on Friday 28th January, two days before the 39th anniversary of the massacre.
What Madden described as “detailed representations” in favour of prosecutions for murder, attempted murder and perjury were submitted to both the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) in the North and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in England.
The solicitor went on to say:
“Following careful consideration of Lord Saville’s report and its implications, we have submitted detailed representations to the PPS requesting that those responsible for the murders and attempted murders on Bloody Sunday be prosecuted in court.
“It is clear to us that the evidential and public interest tests for bringing prosecutions have been satisfied.”
Responding to the news, Bloody Sunday relative Mickey McKinney, whose brother Willie was gunned down, supported the move, saying:
“I am aware that the majority of families quite rightly want prosecutions for the murder and attempted murder of their loved ones on Bloody Sunday. It is my family’s hope that this submission will help the Prosecution Service move forward, using the substantial evidence which exists to prosecute those responsible for murder.”