Expert: Mark Smith - 11/29/2004

Question
Hi,

Just watched a programme about the 1952 murder by Craig & Bentley of policeman Miles. A lot of coverage has been given over the years to the mental state of Derek Bentley and he has been officially pardoned.

What I would like to ask is what ever happened of Christopher Craig. I do know that he welcomed Bentley's pardon around 1991. But, when was he released, what became of him and is he still alive today. Have tried a search on Google but most attention is given to the plight of Derek Bentley.

Thank you.  

Answer
Hello Michael.
Christopher Craig was realeased after serving ten years in 1963. The last information I have on him is that he became a plumber, married and lived a normal life in Bedfordshire. He would now be 68 years old.
Derek Bentley was pardoned in 1998. That does not mean he would have walked free from court in 1952, just that he should not have been hanged. He would even today probably be found guilty of murder and certainly of robbery.
Mark