Two siblings, Michael Stewart, 57, and Anthony Stewart, 60, were convicted of the murder of civil servant Anthony Littler in a trial at the Old Bailey. The incident occurred 42 years ago in East Finchley, north London. Littler, aged 45, was fatally attacked with a blunt weapon while walking home. The assailants left him in an alleyway, where he was discovered with severe head injuries. Despite efforts to seek help, Littler succumbed to a catastrophic brain injury sustained during the assault.
The Stewart brothers had a history of targeting individuals they believed to be gay, making it a disturbing pastime with their friends. Initially, they denied involvement in Littler’s murder during police investigations, claiming to be at home during the incident. However, a breakthrough emerged after 29 years when their younger brother, Daniel, disclosed their involvement following a family dispute.
In 2022, authorities reopened the case and utilized covert surveillance methods to gather evidence against the brothers. The trial revealed incriminating statements made by the siblings, with Michael openly confessing to the crime and Anthony remaining taciturn. Following a swift deliberation by the jury, the Stewarts were found guilty of murder.
Senior Crown prosecutor Samantha Yelland commended the outcome, emphasizing the significance of obtaining justice for Anthony Littler and his family after years of unresolved trauma. Detective Chief Inspector Neil John highlighted the calculated nature of the attack, where the victim was deliberately chosen for vulnerability and isolation.
During the trial, it was detailed how Littler was ambushed and assaulted as he walked through an alleyway after midnight. Despite a partial attempt to seek help, the severity of his injuries led to a tragic end at the scene. Furthermore, evidence pointed to Michael Stewart as the anonymous caller who initially reported the incident to emergency services.
The defendants, residing in north London, chose not to testify in their defense. Following the guilty verdict, they were remanded into custody pending sentencing on July 3. The case shed light on the enduring impact of hate crimes and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.