Ingus Budreckis was charged with manslaughter following the death of his housemate after an incident in Ormesby, Middlesbrough. The prosecution alleged that Mr Budreckis caused a fatal injury by delivering a single punch to the stomach during an altercation that took place after birthday celebrations marking the deceased’s 30th birthday. Mr Budreckis denied the allegation throughout.
The case was tried at Teesside Crown Court, where the prosecution alleged that the deceased later died from a ruptured duodenum said to have been caused by the alleged blow. The defence disputed this account, maintaining that Mr Budreckis did not inflict the fatal injury and that the medical evidence did not reliably establish causation.
Central to the trial were complex issues of medical causation. The jury heard evidence relating to the deceased’s pre-existing stomach conditions, the consumption of alcohol over an extended period, and whether there was sufficient evidence to conclude that the alleged punch caused the fatal injury, as opposed to other possible explanations.
After hearing all of the evidence, the jury returned unanimous Not Guilty verdicts, acquitting Mr Budreckis of all charges.
Simon Russell Flint KC of Millennium Chambers led the defence. He appeared alongside Sophie Johnstone of Trinity Chambers and was instructed by Eric Watson and Emma Williams of Watson Woodhouse Solicitors. Together, the defence team presented a careful and detailed challenge to the prosecution case, particularly in relation to the medical and factual evidence relied upon.
The verdict means that Ingus Budreckis has been fully cleared of the allegations against him. The outcome reflects the jury’s assessment of the evidence and the defence submissions advanced on Mr Budreckis’ behalf.
Millennium Chambers recognises the role of Simon Russell Flint KC in securing this outcome in a case involving sensitive facts and complex medical issues, and highlights the importance of rigorous scrutiny of evidence in serious criminal proceedings.
