Serial killer Levi Bellfield, already serving a life sentence for the murder of Milly Dowler, has claimed responsibility for the 1996 murders of Lin and Megan Russell, and the attempted murder of Josie Russell. The Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) has stated its intention to obtain a DNA sample from Bellfield as part of its review into the case of Michael Stone, who has twice been convicted of the murders.
Bellfield's alleged confession was detailed in a four-page statement received by Stone's solicitor, Paul Bacon, in 2022. Bacon expressed hope that the CCRC review and the upcoming DNA test will lead to the identification of the true perpetrator and potentially allow Michael Stone to appeal his convictions. "We hope then to be able to bring Michael before the Court of Appeal, and for him to regain his freedom after all these years of incarceration," Bacon said.
Lin and Megan Russell were murdered in their home in Chillenden, Kent, on July 9, 1996. Their daughter, Josie, then six years old, survived the attack but suffered severe head injuries. The family had moved to Kent from Dyffryn Nantlle, Gwynedd, a few months prior to the murders. Josie Russell now works as an artist in the same area her family relocated to after the attack. Stone was convicted in 1998 for the murders and attempted murders, with his conviction upheld on appeal. A second conviction followed in 2001. Stone has consistently maintained his innocence throughout the legal proceedings.
A spokesperson for the CCRC confirmed their intention to obtain a DNA sample from Bellfield, though no date has yet been set for this procedure. Bellfield, also known as "the man who preyed on young women," was convicted in 2011 for the murders of Milly Dowler, Marsha McDonnell, and Amélie Delagrange, and the attempted murder of Kate Sheill. His crimes occurred between 2002 and 2004.
The Russell family's solicitor, Chris Daw, has stated that they are aware of Bellfield's claims and that the family is awaiting further developments. The investigation continues, with the CCRC's review and the potential DNA evidence from Bellfield expected to be key factors in the ongoing case.