Two Slough men are set to plead guilty to alternative charges in relation to the death of a Burnham father.
Daniel Hicks, 31, of Lower Cippenham Lane, and Martin Fleming, 20, of Bideford Spur, were today (Monday, February 7) due to stand trial for the murder of Beau Robinson in Burnham in June 2021.
The 35-year-old died following an altercation with five men near his home on Wyndham Crescent, Burnham, on Father’s Day 2021 (June 20).
However, a trial that was expected to last four weeks will now not go ahead after it was suggested both offenders would enter guilty pleas to lesser offences.
It was indicated Hicks would admit to manslaughter and possession of a bladed article.
It was indicated Fleming would admit to an offence of violent disorder.
Both men will appear at Reading Crown Court again tomorrow afternoon to formally enter pleas to the alternative charges.
Barristers gathered in court for the opening of the trial when prosecutor James Lofthouse told His Honour Judge Paul Dugdale that there had been a ‘development’ in proceedings.
Mr Lofthouse told the court of the charges the two defendants would be pleading guilty to instead and told Judge Dugdale these were “acceptable” to the prosecution, negating the need for a trial.
Responding, Judge Dugdale said: “These are very serious allegations.
“The consequences have extensive long-terms effects with everyone involved in the case.
“It looks as though acceptable pleas are going to be entered.
“I will adjourn this matter to come back here at 2pm tomorrow [February 8].
“I will determine then what is the way forward and how long the adjournment is going to be before I can sentence the two of you.”
Fleming and Hicks will formally enter pleas at Reading Crown Court tomorrow (Tuesday, February 8).
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