Couple who shot burglar not to be charged

The Chief Crown Prosecutor for the East Midlands Judith Walker has issued a statement indicating that Andy and Tracey Ferrie will not be charged for using a licenced shotgun to defend themselves from masked intruders who sought to burgle their home in Melton Mowbray.  Mr and Mrs Ferrie were arrested and spent three days in custody after reporting the burglary to police and indicating that they had used a the shotgun in self-defence.  It is understood that one of the burglars was shot in the hand.

Ms Walker's statement is reproduced below:-

"Andy and Tracey Ferrie were released on police bail yesterday [Tuesday 4 september 2012] after being questioned about the shooting in the early hours of sunday morning at their home near Melton Mowbray.  Earlier this afternoon, the head of the East Midlands Complex Casework Unit, Lawrence English, visited the scene of the incident to see for himself whether the accounts given by Mr and Mrs Ferrie were consistent with other evidence of what happened.  Looking at the evidence, it is clear to me that Mr and Mrs Ferrie did what they believed was necessary to protect themselves, and their home, from intruders.  As Crown Prosecutors we look at all cases on their merit and according to the evidence in the individual case. I am satisfied that this is a case where householders, faced with intruders in frightening circumstances, acted in reasonable self defence.  The law is clear that anyone who acts in good faith, using reasonable force, doing what they honestly feel is necessary to protect themselves, their families or their property, will not be prosecuted for such action.  We have therefore advised Leicestershire Police that Mr and Mrs Ferrie should be released from their bail as they will not face any charges over what happened."

The Prime Minister David Cameron has indicated that the government intends to change the law relating to self-defence and burglary.