Appeal made it worse, say Deans

By Nigel Baudains

Chris and Martine Dean, daughter Lindsey McLaren, friends and supporters outside the court after the appeal had been rejected. (Picture by Adrian Miller, 0557937

JAMES DEAN’S parent’s told yesterday how the appeal process had added to the family’s heartbreak at his loss.

Craig Rouget was convicted of murder in July and the appeal concluded yesterday. ‘It’s made the grieving worse knowing that this was coming up because we knew we would have to go through it again,’ said James’s father, Chris.

‘We will never get over losing James, but now we will carry on with our lives as best we can. We have a close family and good friends.’

James’s mother, Martine, said that just returning to the witness support room in the courts complex had been an uncomfortable experience, as was hearing parts of the case discussed again.

‘Some of the things were upsetting and it was painful to hear the details again,’ she said.

Mr Dean said references to details from the autopsy and the level of violence involved had been harrowing.

He said he and his family had been nervous over the possible outcome of the appeal and he had slept the night before only with some medication.

The family was happy at the outcome and wished to thank the police and the prosecution.

‘I do feel that the sentence is a little on the low side, but that’s not for me to decide and nothing will bring James back.’

He said he hoped the outcome would go some way towards stopping young people from carrying knives.

‘Anybody who carries a knife is in the position to ruin the lives of many people, send ripples through the community and devastate the lives not only of their family and friends but also the people of Guernsey who believe they are living in a society free of serious violence.

‘Yes, we will live with this for the rest of our lives and we hope that Mr Rouget will, for the rest of his life, reflect on his actions and upon his release will have changed his attitude towards carrying weapons.’

James’s sister, Kelly, was unable to be in court yesterday as she had a commitment in the UK.

Mrs Dean said her daughter had been overjoyed when the news was conveyed to her.