‘I Suffered a Great Injustice’: The Struggle of Andrew Malkinson, Imprisoned for 17 Years for a Crime Committed by Another
Image source, Pete Milson
Andrew Malkinson, who served 17 years in a UK prison for a crime he did not commit, expressed mixed emotions of relief and anger after the real perpetrator, Paul Quinn, was convicted.
Malkinson was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment for a brutal assault that took place in Greater Manchester in 2003, spending 17 years incarcerated. This case is regarded as one of the biggest miscarriages of justice in the British legal system.
Last month, Paul Quinn was found guilty of the rape for which Malkinson had been wrongfully imprisoned. In his first public comment, Malkinson said, “I suffered a great injustice.”
On the BBC’s podcast ‘Shadow World: Stolen Years,’ he stated, “Ultimately, the real perpetrator has been identified,” expressing gratitude to the authorities and sharing that he felt relief similar to the victim’s.
“I wonder how she must be feeling now,” he added.
Malkinson has consistently shared that he endured immense suffering alongside the victim throughout the ordeal.
While 52-year-old Quinn was serving his sentence for rape and assault, Malkinson was visiting ancient ruins in Rome, Italy.
“I was also angry because I had been serving an unjust sentence for a long time,” he admitted.
Although DNA testing did not confirm Malkinson’s guilt, he was forced to serve a sentence for a crime committed by another individual.
Now aged 60, Malkinson has always maintained his innocence. However, during the investigation of suspicious individuals related to the crime, the victim identified Malkinson as the perpetrator.
Malkinson made multiple efforts to prove his innocence but was unsuccessful until DNA testing in 2023 on the victim’s clothing identified the real assailant.
The Struggle Is Not Over Yet
Image source, PA
Malkinson’s fight for justice is ongoing. An investigation led by a judge is underway to determine how the wrongful conviction occurred. The commission’s outcome will play a key role in his compensation battle.
Last year, public reports criticized the Criminal Cases Review Commission for twice failing to assist in the case.
An independent report claimed the commission did not attempt DNA testing sooner.
An independent body investigating police misconduct is examining the handling of Malkinson’s case, including whether the police and other officials followed proper procedures.
Issues under review include whether evidence was destroyed, if witnesses were coerced, and whether Malkinson was provided with adequate defense support.
Neglected Evidence
Image source, GMP
During Malkinson’s 2004 trial, the victim was unable to confirm if he was the assailant. Only after seeing Malkinson in prison did she inform the police in 2023, at the court hearing.
She said an officer encouraged her to proceed with the case, and although frightened and reluctant, she eventually complied under that influence.
Since his release in 2020, Malkinson has been trying to rebuild his life, a process detailed in a BBC Four podcast.
“I am eager to understand why such a great injustice happened in my life,” Malkinson said.
On July 19, 2003, a young mother was attacked on her way home by sexual offender Quinn. She suffered beating, a broken jaw, and bite marks. Evidence confirmed Quinn’s use of drugs to render her unconscious before the rape.
Judges at Manchester Crown Court ruled after confirming Quinn’s DNA on the victim’s clothing.
Previously available forensic technology did not identify Quinn’s DNA until 2023, as the tests were not utilized earlier.
Malkinson also researched online about how long police samples are retained.
Quinn was sentenced on June 5.
Malkinson’s Future Plans
Greater Manchester police are investigating Quinn’s possible links to several other unsolved crimes.
Officer Jim Partington stated, “I believe there are other victims affected by him. A detailed investigation into three incidents between 2003 and 2010 is underway.”
The police have urged anyone connected to Quinn to come forward with information.
Malkinson revealed he endured 23 years of mental anguish and legal battles to prove his innocence.
“I am exhausted by this case,” he said. “Since 2003, the continuous struggle has caused me immense pain.”
He mentioned having taken a break from legal fights to live peacefully. Recently, he traveled to Australia to reunite with his sisters after many years apart.
He also enjoys stargazing and has bought a telescope.
He said he did not have a chance to observe stars in prison but that his interest has grown since release.
“Now, I want to spend the rest of my life in peace,” he concluded.