Sam Hallam to be released on bail after seven years in prison

Happier times: Sam Hallam and his mother Wendy

After seven years in prison, Sam Hallam, the Hoxton man who was found guilty of murder in 2004, has been told by the Court of Appeal he will be released on bail this afternoon after the prosecution announced it would not oppose his appeal.

Mr Hallam, who is now 24, was sentenced to life in prison for killing Ethiopian refugee, Essayas Kassahun, in 2004. He has always maintained his innocence.

The Justice for Sam Campaign has gained momentum over the years, with widespread support from family, friends, the community and high profile figures such as actor Ray Winstone.

Last year the Criminal Cases Review Commission conducted a rare assessment which found fresh evidence suggesting Mr Hallam was not present at the crime and referred the case to the Court of Appeal.

Update 8.05am Thursday 17 May 2012:

Commenting on Sam Hallam’s release yesterday, Paul May, campaign manager for the Justice for Sam campaign said: “Sam’s freedom could not have been won without the unwavering support of large numbers of ordinary people in Hoxton and elsewhere who believed in his innocence from the outset.

“This support for Sam’s campaign was crucial in justice finally being achieved after many years. We pay tribute to all the people who attended campaign events, signed petitions, wrote letters and helped to keep the campaign going,”

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Related:

Sam Hallam released after prosecution decides against opposing his appeal