Thomas (Previously Edgington) v R. [2026] EWCA Crim 353 (25 March 2026)

Thomas (Previously Edgington) v R. [2026] EWCA Crim 353 (25 March 2026)

The fresh psychiatric evidence sought to be admitted is not truly new, as it is based on material available at trial and does not materially alter the evidential position. The criticisms of the prosecution expert were explored at trial, and the jury had ample evidence to reach their verdict. The appeal is not an...

Source-derived case information.

Citation
[2026] EWCA Crim 353
Parties
Appellant: Nicole Thomas (Previously Nicola Edgington); Respondent: Rex
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
25 March 2026
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal / Appeal From Conviction and Sentence Following CCRC Reference
Outcome
appeal dismissed
Legal Topics
Diminished Responsibility, Fresh Evidence, Murder, Manslaughter, Expert Evidence, Mental Health, Appeal Procedure
Criminal Law Diminished Responsibility Fresh Evidence Murder Manslaughter Expert Evidence Mental Health Appeal Procedure

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Parties

Nicole Thomas (Previously Nicola Edgington)

Appellant

Rex

Respondent

Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal / Appeal From Conviction and Sentence Following CCRC Reference

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether fresh psychiatric evidence should be admitted on appeal
  2. 2 Whether the conviction for murder is unsafe due to alleged deficiencies in prosecution expert evidence
  3. 3 Whether the appellant should have been convicted of manslaughter on grounds of diminished responsibility

Ratio Decidendi

The fresh psychiatric evidence sought to be admitted is not truly new, as it is based on material available at trial and does not materially alter the evidential position. The criticisms of the prosecution expert were explored at trial, and the jury had ample evidence to reach their verdict. The appeal is not an opportunity to relitigate the same issues with new experts. The conviction for murder is safe, and the appeal is dismissed.

Court Disposition

appeal dismissed

Orders

  • Fresh evidence refused admission
  • Conviction for murder upheld