Magee, Michael

Michael Magee was convicted in December 1990 of conspiracy to murder, conspiracy to cause an explosion, and possession of an explosive substance with intent. Mr Magee received a sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment.

The CCRC inherited an application for review of the conviction from the Home Office in March 1997.

Following his arrest, Mr Magee had been interviewed 11 times over 54 hours.

He made a verbal confession statement in the sixth interview and a written confession (which he stated had been composed for him by police officers) at the seventh interview.

Mr Magee requested a solicitor but the solicitor was withheld for 48 hours in accordance with emergency legislation.

Mr Magee also alleged mistreatment during his detention and interrogation.

He later complained to the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) which upheld his submissions with respect denial of access to a lawyer, finding that Mr Magee’s right to a fair trial had been violated.

The CCRC referred the conviction in July 2000 on the basis that the ECtHR judgment raised a real possibility the court would conclude that the confession evidence should have been excluded at trial.

The Northern Ireland Court of Appeal quashed the conviction in January 2001.