John McDevitt has lost his appeal against his murder conviction for the 1984 killing of British soldier Private Neil Clarke in Derry. The Court of Appeal delivered its judgment on Friday.
Speaking after the ruling, McDevitt stated his disappointment but affirmed his commitment to his campaign to clear his name. He maintains his innocence not only in relation to the murder conviction but also for four other offenses, including the wounding of other soldiers. McDevitt expressed gratitude to his family, supporters, and legal team for their assistance over the past 43 years in his pursuit of justice, and to the people of Derry for their consistent acceptance of his innocence.
SDLP Foyle MP Colum Eastwood, who attended the court with McDevitt's family, pledged continued support for his efforts to clear his name. Eastwood described the verdict as "extremely disappointing" for McDevitt, who has spent over a decade in prison. The MP noted that significant questions remain about the conviction and its handling, regardless of the verdict.
McDevitt was jailed for the murder of Private Neil Clarke, who was killed on Easter Monday in 1984.