Saudi nurses may get five years
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Two British nurses accused of murdering an Australian colleague in Saudi Arabia may face only five years in jail, the Saudi ambassador in London said yesterday.
The agreement by Yvonne Gilford's brother to waive the right to demand the death penalty in return for pounds 750,000 had lifted the threat of execution hanging over Deborah Parry, Dr Ghazi Algosaibi said. And Frank Gilford's decision, announced on Wednesday in Australia, meant the judgment against Lucille McLauchlan - who was sentenced 500 lashes and eight years imprisonment for her part in the killing - could also be reviewed.
"According to the Saudi legal system, when the next of kin pardons, as he did, the court will apply the lesser sentence of jail, usually not exceeding five years," Dr Algosaibi said in a statement. Dr Algosaibi added: "The case is not yet over and there are further steps before the final verdict is announced. I do sincerely hope that the media will see fit to declare 'time out' and allow the judges and the lawyers to get on with their jobs."
Earlier Parry's family had said they were "absolutely delighted" that the victim's brother has waived his right to demand the death penalty for her.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments