Summary
A trial involving alleged grooming gang members in Rochdale ended after it was discovered that jurors were discussing a related broadcast on a WhatsApp group. The judge decided to stop the trial because of concerns that jurors were not following court rules. A new trial is planned for August.
Key Facts
- The trial took place at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court.
- Six men were accused of rape and other sexual crimes against two teenage girls between 2003 and 2006.
- Jurors were found to be discussing a broadcast on grooming gangs via a WhatsApp group, against court instructions.
- One juror reported the group to court officials, leading to an investigation.
- The judge, Matthew Corbett-Jones, decided to discharge the jury due to "real concerns" about their conduct.
- Two jurors said they were going to watch the broadcast, despite knowing it was against the judge's directions.
- A re-trial is scheduled for August.
- The accused men deny all charges against them.
