Gov backs Dunn case

NEWS Court rules civil action can proceed

A judge has ruled that Harry Dunn’s family can pursue a civil claim against his alleged killer, Anne Sacoolas. Sacoolas has admitted that she was behind the wheel of the car that stuck the teenage motorcyclist while it was being driven on the wrong side of the road. Sacoolas then fled back to the US having claimed diplomatic immunity. With extradition refused by the American State Department, the Dunn family have begun civil proceedings in the US to claim for damages. Sacoolas had tried to have the case dismissed, claiming that holding the proceedings in the UK would be “more convenient”. However, a judge ruled against Sacoolas, pointing out that she had said at the same time her reason for not returning to the UK was that she was concerned should would

‘Responsibility entails facing those harmed’

US COURT JUDGEMENT

not “receive fair treatment”. As part of his judgement, he said: “While it is commendable that defendant Anne Sacoolas admits that she was negligent and that her negligence caused Harry Dunn’s death, this does not equate acceptance of responsibility.

“Full acceptance of responsibility entails facing those harmed by her negligence and taking responsibility for her acts where they occurred, in the United Kingdom.”

The case has had the support of the British government, with the Foreign Secretary, Dominic Raab, writing to the judge to express hope they would permit the case.

The case has also raised questions over Sacoolas’ immunity claims. She was able to claim immunity as the spouse of a CIA officer stationed in the UK. However, as part of the trial, it emerged that Sacoolas was herself working in intelligence. If she was working at the base, she would not have been afforded immunity. Downing Street have said they were not aware Sacoolas was an intelligence officer. Further motions for the dismissal of the case by Sacoolas’ defence team will be heard on March 3.