Murder trial jury to hear relationship evidence

The jury in the case of the murder trial of Mansfield woman Michelle Swift will hear details of her relationship with the deceased, Emiel Blankert, a judge has ruled.
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Following lengthy legal discussions at Nottingham Crown Court today, Monday 16th June, Judge Michael Spencer QC decided that details surrounding the 17-year relationship of the two would be revealed during the forthcoming trial.

Mr Blankert, of Ladybrook Place on the Ladybrook Estate, died in December, days after he was admitted himself to King’s Mill Hospital.

He had sustained a perforated abdomen following a serious attack.

Michelle Swift (48), of the same address, denies the murder of Mr Blankert.

Judge Michael Stokes said he would allow details of the relationship between the two to be raised in court ‘in principal’.

The trial of Michelle Swift had been due to start last Monday, 9th June, but was initially delayed because of a delay in transporting Miss Swift from Peterborough, where she is being held on remand.

The jury is expected to be sworn in tomorrow for the start of the trial.