Showing posts with label Jackie Sebire. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jackie Sebire. Show all posts

Session 14. Tuesday Afternoon, May 1, 2012

SESSION 14. Tuesday Afternoon, May 1, 2012
12:39@skynewsgathererInquest into death of Gareth Williams resumes after lunch break. Not surprisingly Supt Michael Broster is back
WITNESS: Michael Broster
12:42@skynewsgathererSupt led search at MI6 building. He says he didn't search himself but when cabinet was opened iPhone was 'immediately obvious'
12:44@skynewsgathererSupt Broster confirms he seized iPhone from cabinet on Gareth's office at MI6
12:48@skynewsgathererSupt Broster says he can't remember if cabinet was sealed on his first visit to Gareth's office on 26th
12:50@skynewsgathererSupt Broster says he played no part in search. That was done by earlier witness DC Hall
12:52@skynewsgathereriPhone seized by Supt Broster was not put in exhibits bag until it was back at Scotland Yard
12:54@skynewsgathererCoroner: "Did you tell DC Hall you had seized it so it could be noted in log?" Broster: "I can't recall, it maybe that I neglected do that,"
12:57@skynewsgathererThe cabinet was used by Gareth and his colleagues. Gareth's possessions were mainly found on 2nd shelf
12:59@skynewsgathererSupt Broster says he was only told of the black bag after he had returned NSY. He didn't notice it during search of office
13:01@skynewsgathererSupt Broster confirms that no inventory made of Gareth's possessions at office. He says only relevant items should be seized
13:02@skynewsgathererCoroner asking how DC Hall should identify "relevant" items
13:03@skynewsgathererSupt being asked about 9 memory sticks - which murder squad not told about
13:04@skynewsgathererSupt Broster says memory cards were not brought to his attention at time of first search
13:06@skynewsgathererSupt Broster says they were first identified in an inventory created by SIS in Sept 2011
13:07@skynewsgathererA second inventory had list of 30 different sorts of things from Gareth's box folder. One just says misc items
13:08@skynewsgathererSupt Broster admits these inventories were not shared with senior investigating officer. He did not know what misc items were
13:09@skynewsgathererSupt Broster says had he given these to murder squad team it wouldn't have helped investigation
13:12@skynewsgathererCoroner reminds Supt Broster that he had previously given evidence that investigation was not hampered by SO15's involvement
13:13@skynewsgathererCoroner asking why items were not seized when Supt Broster was told about them in 2011
13:14@skynewsgathererSupt says he could not attribute items as having been used by Gareth. Despite inventory listed as "content of Gareth's tray"
13:16@skynewsgatherer"If this had been given to you by any other type of agency you would have seized it," asks coroner
13:17@skynewsgatherer"I am suggesting that you are not being completely impartial in this case" says Coroner. "I am completely impartial" says Broster
13:18@skynewsgatherer"In hindsight it's something that SO15 could have done," says Broster when asked if SO15 should have examined memory sticks
13:19@skynewsgatherer"It seems DCI Sebire has been relying on communications with the agencies on you," says Coroner
13:19@skynewsgathererSupt Broster says that he passed all relevant information on to murder squad team
13:22@skynewsgathererSupt Broster, of Met's counter terror team, says he is impartial despite allowing MI6 to examine memory sticks
13:34@skynewsgathererSupt Broster: "I am not saying a member of SIS isn't involved. I don't know. It might have been SIS, or someone unconnected"
13:40@skynewsgathererSupt Broster says keys found were for the office - he was told this by SIS. He didn't check
13:40@stone_skynewsMore curious evidence this pm from Gareth Williams inquest. Too much to tweet it all but interesting observation now from Police witness..
13:40@stone_skynewsDiscussing why certain items of evidence at MI6 weren't seized, Police officer says Met can't just walk into MI6 & do what they want
13:42@skynewsgathererFamily lawyer:" So if person who killed Gareth is a member if SIS, you don't investigate because SIS is trustworthy?"
13:42@stone_skynewsPolice officer admits that MI6 were left to examine memory sticks to see what was on them. Police never seized the sticks. Gareth Williams
13:46@stone_skynewsCoroner suggests to police witness that he is not an impartial investigator. "an impartial investigator would have seized items themselves"
13:46@skynewsgathererLawyer for SIS says a receipt for hotel bill from Las Vegas was also seized but both Supt Broster and DC Hall had no knowledge of this
13:52@stone_skynewsFamily lawyer asks cop: "so if the person who killed Gareth Williams was a member of SIS (MI6) you would do nothing to investigate because.
13:52@stone_skynews... you believed that organisation to be trustworthy?" Cop says don't put words into my mouth. He insists MI6 have been fully cooperative
13:54@skynewsgathererRT @Stone_SkyNews: Family lawyer asks cop: "so if the person who killed Gareth Williams was a member of SIS (MI6) you would do nothing t ..
13:55@skynewsgathererRT @Stone_SkyNews: ... you believed that organisation to be trustworthy?" Cop says don't put words into my mouth. He insists MI6 have be ..
13:58@skynewsgathererInquest adjourned for screens to be put up in court to shield identity of next witness
14:02@skynewsgathererAnonymous witness is being described a SIS D - no further details of who it is yet
14:20@skynewsgathererInquest resumes SIS D is the manager of Gareth's line manager (witness G)
WITNESS: Witness D
14:22@skynewsgathererSIS D's signature was on Gareth's annual leave card. Witness says he would do this if line manager was away
14:24@skynewsgathererWitness D says other than the card there we no other records of leave booked
14:25@skynewsgathererWitness knew Gareth had not been in work and was told that HR had been informed
14:28@skynewsgathererWitness D says he was not passed any specific information as to how to secure Gareth's possessions - but more tape and a note put on cabinet
14:29@skynewsgathererWitnesses D and G were present during police search of cabinet on aug 26 2010
14:30@skynewsgathererWitness, or his colleague, would have opened cabinet for SO15 officers Broster and Hall, inquest told
14:32@skynewsgathererWitness cannot remember if anything was seized from cabinet - he can't remember if iPhone was taken from shelf
14:34@skynewsgathererWitness can't remember if Supt Broster was in room for whole of 55 minute search
14:35@skynewsgathererWitness cannot remember the black bag shown to the court earlier
14:37@skynewsgathererWitness was also at subsequent search on 27th
14:43@skynewsgathererFamily lawyer now asking questions. Witness says cabinet was locked on Aug 26 but didn't have any additional seals on it
14:44@skynewsgathererFamily lawyer asking whether items from other colleagues were removed. They were not
14:46@skynewsgathererWitness says it's possible cabinet could have been opened by SIS when police were not present
14:48@skynewsgathererMet police lawyer now asking questions. Witness says no notes were taken at time and has only just been asked to recall events
14:49@skynewsgathererWitness was only asked for his account of events yesterday and admits his recollection is "hazy"
14:51@skynewsgathererScreens now being removed. Coroner still expects to complete all evidence today
15:08@skynewsgathererPolice have requested that exhibits presented before coroner are not released to the media as DCI has only just seen them
15:09@skynewsgathererStatement now from GCHQ team leader, who was point of contact for SO15
STATEMENT: GCHQ team leader
15:15@skynewsgathererDCI Jackie Sebire, now recalled. She is the SIO for the murder enquiry into death of Gareth Williams
WITNESS: Jackie Sebire
15:17@skynewsgathererDCI asked if any of Gareth's footprints were found on tiles in bathroom after watching expert witness try to get into bag in bath
15:17@skynewsgathererNo footprints were found other than on the floor, inquest told
15:18@skynewsgatherer2 detectives from SO15 went to Las Vegas to trace Gareth's last movements. Nothing was raised with enquiry team
15:20@skynewsgathererDCI confirms that Gareth's finances were key line of enquiry but no unusual entries to his four accounts
15:20@skynewsgathererReceipts and bank statements showed purchase of expensive women's clothes but no unusual deposits or withdrawals
15:22@skynewsgathererCoroner asks Gareth's sister or shoe size. It is 6.5. (similar to shoes found in Gareth's flat)
15:25@skynewsgathererWhen asked about phone found in Gareth's flat - DCI says no calls were made on phone before Gareth's death
15:25@skynewsgathererThis phone had been restored to factory settings - no data was found with the network provider
15:27@skynewsgathererDCI says in an ideal world she would have liked to have had 'primary access to' all the material gathered from Gareth's work
15:28@skynewsgathererDCI says investigation has never been classified as a murder enquiry - it's a suspicious death
15:29@skynewsgathererDCI says all lines of enquiry will be relooked at following new information which has come out during inquest
15:29@skynewsgathererDCI Sebire says after hearing all the evidence she still regards Gareth Williams' death as suspicious
15:30@skynewsgathererDCI says enquiries are still ongoing and won't stop until answers found
15:32@skynewsgathererDCI looked into how someone could covertly enter Gareth's flat without keys - says someone could put arm through letter box
15:32@skynewsgathererDCI says two bag experts used by police were independent of each other and only met at court last week
15:36@skynewsgathererDCI says SIS officers we always interviewed with a lawyer or HR manager present
15:40@skynewsgathererDCI says she got witness statements from some people but not anonymous witnesses - she thought this was policy decision made by Supt Broster
15:42@skynewsgathererDCI confirms that over a 2 year period there were only 4 days when Gareth looked up bondage sites
15:44@skynewsgathererThere appears to be coincidence of use of bondage sites with application for secondment and course, says family lawyer
15:45@skynewsgathererDCI says she looked at coincidence and asked Supt Broster to look into whether courses included methods of escape
15:46@skynewsgathererDCI couldn't establish if Gareth had visited gay bars in Vauxhall
15:48@skynewsgathererDCI says she has seen first hand distress caused to family and team about leaks of information to media
15:49@skynewsgathererInformation appeared in press that DCI Sebire's team didn't even know about, she tells inquest
15:50@skynewsgathererDCI says her team felt very strongly that they didn't want enquiry prejudiced in any way
15:50@skynewsgathererDCI says practically every line of enquiry from public was followed up
15:52@skynewsgathererDCI says that while exhibits officers were at flat the boiler kicked in 3 times to turn the heating and water on (in August)
15:53@skynewsgathererFamily lawyer asking if heating could have speeded decomposition of body
15:55@skynewsgathererDCI says she can't answer question about whether previous tenants in Gareth's flat did the same work
15:56@skynewsgathererDCI also says she can't say how many employees of GCHQ/SIS have given DNA samples to investigating team
15:57@skynewsgathererDCI: "We have a lot more telephone and computer work, all evidence from inquest will be looked at.. Plus info from work colleagues"
15:58@skynewsgathererDCI says it's a decision for her boss as to whether she will continue to be the SIO on the case
15:59@skynewsgathererDCI says had SIS reported Gareth missing earlier in the day it would have made a difference as more resources available
16:03@skynewsgathererDCI says she strongly believes 3rd party was involved in Gareth's death and urges people to "search their consciences"
16:07@skynewsgathererAll evidence now concluded in inquest into Gareth Williams death. Coroner will deliver verdict tomorrow after legal submissions
END OF SESSION 14. Tuesday Afternoon, May 1, 2012

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Session 13. Tuesday Morning, May 1, 2012

SESSION 13. Tuesday Morning, May 1, 2012
8:42@skynewsgathererBack with @Stone_SkyNews for final stage of inquest into death of Gareth Williams. Today DCI Jackie Sebire will be recalled
8:58@skynewsgathererCoroner has asked to recall Ros Hammond, forensic scientist from LGC. Plus call a DC Hall from Met and an anonymous witness called SIS D
9:05@stone_skynewsBack at what should be the penultimate day in the inquest of MI6 spy Gareth Williams. The coroner should deliver verdict tomorrow
9:07@stone_skynewsThere is now suggestion already that things may slip in Gareth Williams inquest. Coroner is asking for witnesses to be recalled
9:07@stone_skynewsThe forensic scientist who gave evidence yesterday, a police officer and a new anon MI6 witness could be called on to give evidence
9:11@skynewsgathererDCI Jackie Sebire back in the witness box, she is the SIO in Gareth Williams case
WITNESS: Jackie Sebire
9:12@skynewsgathererCoroner asks if detective had ever been provided with a list of Gareth's belongings from SIS or GCHQ. She says no
9:13@skynewsgathererDetective says the first she heard of a North Face holdall being found amongst work things was yesterday
9:14@skynewsgathererDCI says she only learnt this morning that 9 memory sticks were found with Gareth's work belongings
9:16@stone_skynewsThroughout this inquest there has been an awkward desire to balance public interest with national security
9:16@stone_skynewsCoroner grants anonymity to a further MI6 witness and recalls the Forensic Scientist, Ros Hammond later today
9:16@skynewsgathererFamily lawyer asking if DCI had been aware of memory sticks in 2010 if she would have looked at them
9:19@skynewsgathererDCI says that memory sticks would have been checked had she known about them. DCI was only told of emails
9:24@stone_skynewsInteresting developments - cop in charge of investigation says she was not aware of 9 memory sticks found in Gareth Williams work belongings
9:25@skynewsgathererGareth Williams inquest now in chambers. Update when we are allowed back into court
9:37@skynewsgathererNext up is DC Colin Hall, he had not been due to give evidence today
WITNESS: Colin Hall
9:38@skynewsgathererDetective went to MI6 offices on 26 August, 3 days after Gareth was discovered dead
9:40@skynewsgathererDC Hall was taken to the room that Gareth shared with 3 colleagues. He was taken to one of 3 cabinets
9:42@skynewsgathererDetective told certain items were for Gareth's work and he couldn't examine them. No inventory was taken
9:44@skynewsgathererDC Hall works a forensic officer with the Met's counter terrorism team SO15
9:45@skynewsgathererDC says there was no evidence that Gareth's cabinet had been sealed following his death. But it was locked
9:49@skynewsgathererDC Hall says it's not be routine to take an inventory of items. He only recorded a photocopied birth certificate of Gareth and a note pad
9:49@skynewsgathererItems were seized on DC's second visit to MI6
9:51@skynewsgathererDC says that if he had seen a mobile phone in Gareth's office he would have seized it. DC doesn't remember seeing one
9:55@skynewsgathererDC says he found a black North Face back under Gareth's desk. It contained 'personal items'. The bag was not seized
9:56@skynewsgathererDC says he was told by Supt that the bag should be locked and left in place. ' I am a DC I do what I am told'
9:57@skynewsgathererDC admits that the bag should have been seized. The bag was looked through but no inventory was taken
9:58@skynewsgathererDC says he was acting on orders from Supt Michael Broster
10:01@skynewsgathererGareth's work cabinet was sealed on August 26 during So15's 55 minute visit. DC says the search was cut short
10:02@skynewsgathererDC doesn't know why search was cut short but that he had to return the following day to complete it
10:04@skynewsgathererDC Hall also attended search of GCHQ, where Gareth had worked before secondment to SIS in London
10:06@skynewsgathererDC found 3 'entirely' empty draws with the keys found in the top one, inquest told. He says he would have made note if any docs found
10:08@skynewsgathererDC Hall confirms he has security clearance when asked by family lawyer. The DC went into Gareth's flat the day body found
10:10@skynewsgathererDC's job was to look for 'sensitive' items in the flat. He found some but none were seized, he tells inquest
10:14@skynewsgathererUnder questioning from family lawyer DC Hall admits cabinet was not 'sealed' but relocked with same combination lock by MI6
10:16@skynewsgathererDC changes evidence and says the bag was locked and put in cabinet not left in situ under table as he said earlier
10:18@skynewsgathererDC Hall says bag was unlocked by MI6, he can't remember how it was locked and unlocked
10:19@skynewsgathererDC says he can't remember exactly what was in the bag. Family lawyer says 'it's as helpful as a London pea-souper'
10:20@skynewsgathererDC was told by superior officer not to take Gareth's passport. He says he can't remember where it was
10:21@skynewsgathererDC asked if Kray twins were involved rather than SIS if things would have been done differently
10:22@skynewsgathererDC says he was told by MI6 as to what was sensitive and what was not
10:22@skynewsgathererDC Hall: "I was under instructions and as I said I do what I am told."
10:33@stone_skynewsIt emerges that the only items seized by police from Gareth Williams 2 work places were laptop, post-it note pad & birth certificate copy
10:35@skynewsgathererDC saw memory sticks but was told they contained sensitive information
10:37@skynewsgathererMI6 barrister making the point that SO15 was brought in because of security clearance and could have requested to seize items
10:46@skynewsgathererDC Hall asked about a hotel bill and medical note found in cabinet. DC says he did not seize those items
10:48@skynewsgathererSIS barrister now asking DC Hall if he could be wrong that Gareth's pedestal at GCHQ was empty. Asking if 2 H&S certs were there
10:50@skynewsgathererDC Hall saying he is relying on his notes he made at the time. It makes no mention of health and safety certificates
10:57@skynewsgathererBag in question found at MI6 has now been brought into court. Coroner wants to check lock - police taking forensic advice
10:59@skynewsgathererDC Hall showing the court how big Gareth's work cabinet was - looks about six feet tall
11:03@skynewsgathererCoroner pushing whether DC Hall would have known if Supt Broster had discovered phone in cabinet
11:03@skynewsgathererDC hall eventually replies: "I would have thought I would have known"
11:04@skynewsgathererDC Hall now putting on gloves to look at the lock on North Face bag found in Gareth's office
11:05@skynewsgathererThe bag is unlocked and empty, there are no padlocks, or locks of any kind on it
11:07@skynewsgathererDC Hall says he can't be sure it was the bag in question
11:08@skynewsgathererPolice now checking in various carrier bags to see if they can find lock
11:09@skynewsgathererFamily lawyer remarking that whole point of exhibits officer is to record items which could be relevant
11:10@stone_skynewsCourt has now seen the bag said to have been found but not seized at Gareth Williams MI6 office. It is a small black North Face holdall
11:12@skynewsgathererDC Hall has now been released from court to go and look for a padlock after checks made with crime scene manager
11:13@skynewsgathererForensic scientist Ros Hammond from LGC now recalled for a couple of quick questions from coroner
WITNESS: Ros Hammond
11:13@stone_skynewsCrux of morning questioning is why police did not seize certain/all items from Gareth Williams workplace? Were they prevented from doing so?
11:15@stone_skynewsCoroner also examining who locked/unlocked/sealed/unsealed items at Gareth Williams MI6 office. Confusing lines of questioning
11:16@skynewsgathererMs Hammond asked about timing as to when DNA error discovered. Mistake uncovered on Feb 7 and confirmed on 8th
11:19@skynewsgathererInquest adjourned for lunch after an incredible morning of evidence
END OF SESSION 13. Tuesday Morning, May 1, 2012

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Session 4. Tuesday Afternoon, April 24, 2012

SESSION 4. Tuesday Afternoon, April 24, 2012
WITNESS: Jackie Sebire
13:57@skynewsgathererDCI says more than 200 witnesses were interviewed. Case deemed a category A enquiry. The same as Soham murders, inquest told
14:00@skynewsgatherer'The heart of the case was whether Gareth could have locked himself in that bag' says DCI Sebire
14:02@skynewsgathererAround 50-60 officers were working on the case each day for the first week, DCI Sebire tells inquest
14:03@skynewsgathererDCI: 'Forensics were a keen line of enquiry. We went above and beyond. I have tried to do everything I can to understand what happened'
14:06@skynewsgathererDCI Sebire has finished giving evidence and returned to sit at the back of the court. Next witness is Sian Jones
WITNESS: Sian Lloyd-Jones
14:08@skynewsgathererMs Jones was friends with Gareth Williams in primary and secondary school. They lost touch then became friends years later
14:09@skynewsgathererThe pair would see each other every other day. She described them as close friends - just friends
14:10@skynewsgathererMs Jones describes them as 'childhood sweethearts' and that Gareth was very fond of her
14:12@skynewsgathererCoroner had asked whether Gareth was 'in love' with Ms Jones
14:12@skynewsgathererThe pair would often meet in cafes around the Knightsbridge area
14:14@skynewsgathererMs Jones describes Gareth as 'kind hearted person, very inspiring to be around.'
14:15@skynewsgathererGareth Williams was interested in walking, cycling, climbing and music - his hobbies took up most of his time
14:15@skynewsgathererMs Jones says that she didn't think Gareth had very many friends
14:16@skynewsgathererMs Jones says that she would 'strongly' say that Gareth had no interest in cross-dressing. Inquest earlier heard he had been to drag night
14:17@skynewsgathererMs Jones not surprised at the amount of women's clothes at flat. Says Gareth was very generous and bought her expensive gifts
14:18@skynewsgathererGareth never bought shoes for Ms Jones. Her feet are size 3. The 26 pairs at flat were size 6
14:21@skynewsgathererGareth helped Ms Jones a few times with her job as a stylist. He would help her find items of clothes etc
14:22@skynewsgathererExamples of gifts to Ms Jones included a Mulberry bag - ' the list is endless' she tells inquest
14:24@skynewsgathererMs Jones says the size six shoes could have been for his sister
14:26@skynewsgathererMs Jones says she was not aware that Gareth had taken fashion courses - but says it doesn't surprise her as he had interest in design
14:26@skynewsgathererMs Jones says if Gareth had been a transvestite he would have felt he could tell her
14:28@skynewsgathererMs Jones said that Gareth could mix with other people but kept himself to himself. She saw no hint of cross-dressing
14:31@skynewsgathererMs Jones knew that Gareth worked a GCHQ and MI6 but he never spoke about his work
14:33@skynewsgathererAfter Ms Jones left London they spoke a few times a month and he visited her once in Wales
14:38@skynewsgathererMs Jones never visited Gareth's home in Cheltenham or London
14:41@skynewsgathererMs Jones says that the clothes would have fitted her or someone her size - she said photos showed them too small for Gareth
14:43@skynewsgathererInquest hears that Gareth and another friend had been to fancy dress party of Japanese super heroes
14:44@skynewsgathererAccording to inquest Japanese superheroes wear bright wigs
14:44@skynewsgathererInquest now adjourned for ten minutes
14:46@stone_skynewsFascinating testimony this pm about Gareth Williams from one of his closest friends - Sian Jones. "We were very close" but "just friends"
14:47@stone_skynewsSian Jones asked about suggestions that Gareth Williams was interested in transvestites. "I would say strongly no, not at all." she says
14:47@stone_skynewsSian Jones is asked about the £20,000 of women's clothes found in Gareth Williams flat. She said they didn't surprise her. He was generous
14:47@stone_skynewsSian Jones: Gareth Williams "was a very generous person. He used to buy me alot of gifts.. many were clothing.. many.. very expensive."
14:58@skynewsgathererEvidence is Gareth Williams inquest finished for the day. Proceedings resume at 1600 for legal application
15:47@skynewsgathererApplication by the media for release of crime scene video shown during inquest about to start
15:55@skynewsgathererInquest hears clarification that SIS carried out internal review of duties carried out by Gareth Williams before his death
16:27@skynewsgathererCoroner rules that the Met Police released photos of crime scene not exhibited during inquest
16:33@skynewsgathererCoroner rules that crime scene video can be released to the media
END OF SESSION 4. Tuesday Afternoon, April 24, 2012

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Session 3. Tuesday Morning, April 24, 2012

SESSION 3. Tuesday Morning, April 24, 2012
7:43@skynewsgathererBack to inquest of Gareth Williams this morning with @skymartinbrunt and @Stone_SkyNews. More on @SkyNews
8:03@skymartinbruntBack at MI6 spy in bag inquest. Expecting to hear from top cop. With @skynewsgatherer and #Stone_Sky News
8:41@skynewsgathererStart of inquest in to death of Gareth Williams running late. First witness today is expected to be DCI Jackie Sebire
8:53@stone_skynewsBack at the inquest into death of GCHQ code breaker Gareth Williams - will hear today from a close friend of his & top cop on investigation
8:55@skymartinbruntUnexplained delay so far
9:06@skynewsgathererInquest into death of Gareth Williams is about to get underway
9:08@skymartinbruntCoroner bans court artists from drawing in court or the media annexe
9:08@skynewsgathererCoroner has denied a request from court artists to be able to draw in court
9:10@skymartinbruntFamily of Gareth Williams and MI6 objected to court artists drawing in court
9:13@skymartinbruntCoroner says she has not seen the report based on MI6 internal investigation which it shared with police
9:14@skymartinbruntMI6 and GCHQ say they did no external investigation into Mr Williams death
9:15@skynewsgathererInquest adjourned after Gareth's mother becomes upset and leaves court. Coroner says all parties have a right to hear proceedings
9:16@skymartinbruntBBC about to challenge coroner's ban on court artists drawing in court. They are not allowed to do so in criminal cases
9:20@skymartinbruntCourt adjourned briefly says coroner to allow Mr Williams ' mother Ellen to "calm down." Mrs Williams appeared very distressed
9:20@stone_skynewsThe inquest into Gareth Williams death is naturally difficult for his family. His mother just left the room, visibly upset. Inquest paused
9:25@skymartinbruntFamily's lawyer attacks media for delaying hearing by arguing for court artists to draw in court. Mrs Williams not in court
9:27@skymartinbruntFamily's lawyer says family has nursed grief and kept away from media for 20 months and want to get on with hearing
9:28@skymartinbruntCoroner confirms no court artists working in courtroom because of family's severe distress and clear grief
9:30@skynewsgathererFirst witness of Gareth Williams inquest now giving evidence. It's DCI Jackie Sebire
WITNESS: Jackie Sebire
9:31@skymartinbruntDet Chief Insp Jackie Sebire explains how she and her murder team were called the night Mr Williams died
9:32@stone_skynewsInquest resumes: Gareth Williams mother left court because upset by delays while issues over media coverage / court artists are discussed
9:32@stone_skynewsA difficult balance at Gareth Williams inquest: strong desire for transparency but must be balanced w/ privacy & secrecy considerations
9:34@stone_skynewsMy colleagues @skynewsgatherer and @skymartinbrunt are tweeting at Gareth Williams inquest too. Worth a follow. More at www.skynews.com
9:35@skynewsgathererDCI describing how cordons were set up around the crime scene says SO15 were informed as they deal with all cases involving SIS
9:35@skymartinbruntSebire says counter terror cops alerted because they deal with all matters involving intelligence agencies
9:36@skynewsgathererDCI tells inquest her job was to task all specialist officers
9:37@skymartinbruntSebire says head of homicide also informed. Police knew it involved a spy but didn't immediately know his identity
9:38@skynewsgathererInquest hears that a DS Quinn had control of the crime scene - even though there were higher ranking counter terror officers there
9:43@skynewsgatherer'It was my scene and no one was allowed in there without my authorising it - or the crime scene manager' DCI tells inquest
9:45@skynewsgathererPolice log shows who entered the crime scene and whether they we wearing protective clothing
9:46@skynewsgathererTwo officers went into the block of flats without protective clothing - but they were only interviewing neighbours and didn't go in flat 4
9:48@skynewsgathererInquest now going through log for who entered crime scene on 24 August 2010
9:49@skynewsgathererDCI said that no one could go into crime scene until she got there. Even the crime scene manager
9:54@skymartinbruntSebire says she doesn't know why crime scene logs don't show if certain cops went into the building
9:59@skynewsgathererAll the people logged going in and out of the crime scene were known to DCI Sebire
10:02@skynewsgathererOne officer from SO15 (counter terrorism) went in to crime scene after getting permission on 23rd, inquest hears
10:03@skynewsgathererNo one from GCHQ or MI6 entered the crime scene according DCI Sebire
10:03@skymartinbruntSebire says no one went into flat without her permission
10:04@skynewsgathererDCI says a new front door, with new locks and an alarm, was put on the flat to protect it from anyone trying to get in
10:05@skymartinbruntPolice replaced front door and new alarm to stop Press or others trying to get in
10:05@stone_skynewsCourt artists have been banned from the Gareth Williams inquest. Coroner says it would be distracting to her & family. Open court tensions
10:06@stone_skynewsBanning artists in Gareth Williams inquest b/c they'd 'distract' is odd: they don't draw in court. They sit, they memorise then LEAVE & draw
10:06@skynewsgathererDCI tells inquest that whilst on holiday Gareth Williams had popped into London office and gone shopping in Knightsbridge
10:08@skymartinbruntMr Williams went shopping mover several days when returning from US work/hold trip 12 days before Death
10:09@skynewsgathererOn August 13th Gareth Williams went to drag show in Bethnal Green
10:10@skynewsgathererInquest being shown CCTV of Gareth Williams going into Harrods on August 15. He bought cakes
10:11@skynewsgathererPolice say he was 'alone, not being followed and relaxed'
10:13@skynewsgathererCCTV then captured Gareth Williams buying steaks in Waitrose
10:14@stone_skynewsCourt at Gareth Williams inquest now being shown CCTV of his last known movements. Shopping in Knightsbridge on 15/8/10
10:14@skymartinbrunta dozen brief CCTV cops show Mr Williams out shopping in Knightsbridge and awaking home 8 days before his death
10:15@skynewsgathererGareth Williams can be seen walking home at 1503 on August 15 after spending the day shopping. He's wearing beige trousers and red top
10:15@skymartinbruntSebire says no evidence he was being followed that day
10:16@stone_skynewsCourt hears that Gareth Williams visited a comedy & drag show - The Jonny Woo Experience - in Soho on 12/8/10 alone
10:17@skynewsgathererInquest now being shown a video of the crime scene
EVIDENCE: video of the scene
10:17@skymartinbruntCorrection, eight days before body discovered
10:18@skymartinbruntMr Williams due back to work the next day 26 Aug but alarm not raised till 23 aug when body found
10:18@skynewsgathererPictures start at the black front door with checkered black and white floor tiles. Officer stands guard at the front
10:19@skynewsgathererIt's a communal front door. Black squares can be seen on the floor which have been put down by SOCO to prevent contamination
10:19@skynewsgathererFront door to flat 4 is open with keys still in the door
10:19@skymartinbruntVideo of his flat now bing shown
10:21@skynewsgathererThere are no signs of forced entry to the flat. Stairs lead straight up from front door. First door leads to store room
10:22@skynewsgathererStore room contained Atom racing bike and cycling equipment
10:23@skynewsgathererAnother flight of stairs leads to the living room and the kitchen. The oven door was open. Flat is very sparse and tidy
10:24@skynewsgathererThere was just a kettle and toaster on counter. Food he bought from Waitrose was still in fridge
10:25@stone_skynewsWe're being shown police video now of the inside of Gareth Williams Pimlico flat as it was when body found. Flat is immaculately tidy
10:26@skymartinbruntBright orange wig seen hanging on back of chair in living room
10:27@skynewsgathererIn living room there's an orange wig, books, drawings, shoes. The red t shirt he was wearing in CCTV was on clothes maiden
10:28@skymartinbruntWashing hanging in living room
10:28@stone_skynewsIn living room of flat is the wig that's been reported about - interesting to see it finally: looks like a fancy-dress wig - shocking pink
10:29@skymartinbruntNewspaper cutting "Top 5 Regrets of the Dying"
10:29@skynewsgathererThere was also a newspaper article by a nurse called 'Top 5 regrets of the dying'
10:29@stone_skynewsIn living room of flat is the wig that's been reported about - interesting to see it finally: looks like a fancy-dress wig - shocking orange
10:32@skymartinbruntArticle says regrets include "I wish I had courage to live a life true to myself"
10:32@skynewsgathererThere was also a note saying that someone had called at flat at 1930 on August 16th but no one had answered
10:33@skymartinbruntAnother regret listed in article: "I wish I had courage to express my feelings"
10:33@skynewsgathererOn the sofa there was a lipstick and Mac foundation. A receipt showed the foundation was bought at Harvey Nichols
10:35@skynewsgathererVideo shows very clean tidy bathroom. No shampoo bottles etc
10:36@skynewsgathererIn Gareth Williams flat there was also a laptop and phone which were examined by police
10:37@skymartinbruntIn spare bedroom were two big North Fce sports hold ally's like the one in which his body was dound
10:37@skynewsgathererIn back bedroom there were two stacked North Face yellow hold alls. Clothes and bedding neatly folded on the bed
10:38@stone_skynewsIn back bedroom are two of the North Face holdalls similar to the one Gareth Williams body was found in in bathroom
10:38@skynewsgathererIn main bedroom there was a crumpled bathrobe on the floor. The duvet was also on the floor yet very neat folded clothes on bed
10:39@stone_skynewsIn main bedroom, bed clothes are strewn on the floor with bathrobe, but clothes neatly on bed. Coroner remarks that it looks incongruous
10:39@skynewsgathererDCI admits that the duvet on the floor and neat clothes on the bed look odd
10:40@skynewsgathererThere was also a crumpled white shirt on the floor near the wardrobe. It looks like it's fallen out - still on hanger
10:40@skymartinbruntIn his bedroom are folded clothes on bed but bathrobe and duvet cover on floor
10:40@skynewsgathererVideo now showing en suite bathroom with red North Face hold all in the bath
10:42@skynewsgathererShower screen is in place. The bag was where officers had found it. The bag is zipped shut and locked with small padlock
10:42@skymartinbruntVideo shows padlocked bag in bath where Mr Williams body was found
10:44@skynewsgathererA 15mm cut has been made in the bag - made by police officers. A 15mm Yale padlock had been used to lock bag
10:45@skynewsgathererInquest hears how the lock would have had to have been twisted to get through two eyelets of zip and closed
10:46@skymartinbruntGraffix shows how two zip eyelets have to be drawn together before padlock bar slipped thru both and then turned and pushed locked
10:46@stone_skynewsInquest now shown video footage of the red North Face holdall in bath with Gareth Williams body inside. Holdall is locked from outside
10:46@skynewsgathererPadlocks were the same as other padlocks found in the flat. They were made in 2008 and sold in packs of four
10:46@stone_skynewsThe holdall looks like one I've attached. It is locked with Yale padlock from outside - zip eyelets linked and locked. p.twimg.com
10:47@skymartinbruntSebire says it would be very difficult to do that locking movement
10:49@skynewsgathererIt looks like socks paired up and folded on the bed - strange scene given duvet cover was crumpled on floor
10:50@skynewsgathererVideo exiting the flat shows a pan on the stairs
10:51@skynewsgathererThe door of the flat was taken away for examination - no evidence that the locks had been tampered with
10:51@skymartinbruntSebire says difficult to explain why clothes neatly folded but duvet and bathrobe crumpled on bedroom floor
10:51@skynewsgathererInquest adjourning for 15 minute break
11:08@skynewsgathererIncredible amount of security at Gareth Williams inquest. Just been stopped and questioned going to the loo
11:16@skymartinbruntSebire says no evidence of forced entry into flat
11:17@skynewsgathererInquest into death of Gareth Williams resumes
11:20@skymartinbruntSpot of old blood from Mr Williams on flat carpet
11:20@skynewsgathererInquest being shown 3d graphics of lay out of flat. Spot of blood from Gareth found on floor outside kitchen
11:21@skynewsgathererThe cream cakes in Harrods box bought by Gareth on August 15 were found in the kitchen
11:22@skymartinbrunt2 footprints that couldn't be identified on kitchen floor
11:22@skynewsgathererThe kitchen was very clean. No prints found on the grill pan. Tea towel still being analysed, says DCI
11:25@skynewsgathererTrousers and a pair of Gareth's underpants found in the living room. 26 pairs shoes, only 4 used, were found in bedroom. Size 6
11:26@skynewsgathererClothing found in back bedroom was 'immaculate' and still in tissue paper says DCI
11:26@skymartinbruntSports bags had 26 pairs of women's shoes in mr Williams size 6 size
11:28@skymartinbruntLots of high value female clothes and Stella McCartney shoes found in holdalls
11:28@skymartinbruntCops Ali found pairs of high heel black patent boots
11:28@stone_skynewsThe Gareth Williams inquest now being told about £20,000 worth of women's clothing found in his flat. 26 pairs of new shoes. Size 6-6.5
11:28@stone_skynewsCoroner asks is size of women's shoes found in flat is same/similar to Gareth Williams shoe size. Witness (Met officer) says yes
11:29@skynewsgathererUnused nail varnish, wigs, make up and shoes by Stella McCartney, Chloe, Dior and Louboutin all found in boxes in back bedroom
11:30@skynewsgathererAll shoes were Williams' size and clothes looked like they would have fitted him says DCI
11:31@skynewsgathererClothes found would have cost 20k. One pair of shoes cost 1000 pounds
11:31@skymartinbruntClothes worth £20,000. Several wigs. Clothes all small or medium. He bought one wig on recent US trip
11:31@skynewsgathererThe orange wig found in living room was bought by Gareth Williams when he visited America
11:31@stone_skynews"Extensive high value collection [of clothes] in my opinion." says witness DCI Jackie Sebire. 1 pair of shoes was £1000. Mostly unworn
11:32@skynewsgathererSmall blood spot and semen found on bathrobe belonging to Gareth Williams
11:34@skynewsgathererSmall locked cash box found in bedside cabinet. It contained receipts and the keys to padlocks found on hold alls, which contained clothes
11:34@skymartinbruntReceipts showed he had been buying women's clothes for two years
11:35@skynewsgathererReceipts showed Gareth Williams had been buying women's clothes since 2008
11:37@skynewsgathererSemen from Gareth Williams found in the en suite bathroom but no other DNA. There are no finger prints on lower tiles above bath
11:39@skynewsgathererDCI Sebire says she would have expected to find Gareth's prints on lower tiles if he had lent on them to balance getting into bag
11:39@skymartinbruntSebire thought from early on that someone else was involved in his death
11:40@skynewsgathererGareth Williams was found naked in the bag. His legs were folded up to his chest
11:40@skynewsgatherer'His face was very calm. His hands were laying on his chest' says DCI
11:41@stone_skynewsInquest now shown computer generated graphic showing position of Gareth Williams inside NorthFace bag. Foetal position. No struggle sign
11:41@skynewsgathererThere were no injuries to nails or fingers as if he had been trying to get out. There were no signs of stress on the bag
11:42@skynewsgathererInquest shown laser scan imagine of how Gareth Williams was found in the bag
11:43@skymartinbruntSebire believes he did not try to get out of the bag
11:43@skynewsgathererInquest hears how Gareth Williams was a very fit man, the flat would have been very hot in August 2010
11:43@stone_skynewsNo sign of struggle to get out of bag. No marks inside bag suggesting attempt to escape. No signs of distress on Gareth Williams body
11:45@skymartinbruntTwo keys that cld have opened bag were lying under his buttock
11:45@stone_skynewsDCI Jackie Sebire was the senior officer at Gareth Williams scene. She is talking through the investigation & her observations / opinions
11:46@skynewsgathererExample of the bag shown to the inquest. Actual bag used was a base camp duffle XL and made up to 2006
11:47@skymartinbruntSebire says it would have been very hot and incredibly uncomfortable inside the bag
11:48@skynewsgathererPolice say they have tested the bag and it would be very difficult to 'manipulate' the bag from the inside
11:48@stone_skynewsThe coroner is now being shown bag identical to the 1 Gareth Williams was found inside. She observes its sturdiness. p.twimg.com
11:50@skymartinbruntCoroner examines replica bag and has trouble lining up zips to lock it from outside
11:51@skynewsgathererWeak blood stains from Gareth Williams were found on handles of the bag
11:52@skymartinbruntWeak blood stains from mr Wiliams on bag handles
11:54@skymartinbruntSmall components of another persons DNA found on bag
11:56@skynewsgathererSmall components of another person's DNA found on bag - inquest will hear more later from DNA experts
11:56@stone_skynewsPolice witness reveals that "small components of another contributors DNA found on padlock of bag" containing Gareth Williams body
11:57@skynewsgathererGareth was described as a very private man - his two best friends had not even visited his home, says police
12:00@skynewsgathererLast time Gareth Williams was known to be alive was at 1am on August 16. He had been looking at website about cycling
12:02@skynewsgathererDCI clears up speculation an Italian family had access to flat - says it was a mistake and they had gone to wrong door
12:03@skynewsgathererInquest into death of Gareth Williams breaks for lunch. Back at 1400
12:03@stone_skynewsThe last time Police say they know Gareth Williams was alive was 1am on 16/8/10 when he checked a cycling website. He was found dead on 23/8/10
END OF SESSION 3. Tuesday Morning, April 24, 2012

Link to source of April 24 coverage
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