A couple hugged and kissed in court after they were cleared of a raid during which a man was battered with an iron bar.
When a jury returned not guilty verdicts Ken Hamoniaux yelled out "yes" and embraced girlfriend Kate Merchant in the dock at Basildon Crown Court.
The couple, both 25, had been accused of aggravated burglary at the home of Bryn Symons in Godman Road. Tilbury. It was further claimed the pair, accompanied by two dogs, stole a gold chain, butcher's knife and £10 note.
Mr Hamoniaux, a neighbour, was also acquitted of attacking Mr Symons with an iron bar.
Miss Merchant, of Wellington Road, Tilbury, and Mr Hamoniaux claimed they knew nothing about the raid.
Published Monday, March 18, 2002
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