Posted on Tuesday 16 November 2021
IN COURT: Jonathon Morgan
A man has been issued with an indefinite hospital order after admitting to the manslaughter of a man in Durham City last year.
Christopher Ritchie, 41, died after being stabbed in Mitchell Street on the morning of March 19 last year.
An investigation was launched by Durham Constabulary’s Major Crime Team, who arrested and charged Jonathon Morgan with murder.
The 28-year-old, of Allergate, Durham, denied murder but admitted manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility.
Appearing at Teesside Crown Court today via video link, Morgan was handed an indefinite hospital order.
Detective Chief Superintendent Adrian Green, who led the investigation, said: “This was a difficult investigation and I am pleased that Morgan has accepted responsibility for the death of Christopher.
“Morgan’s mental illness diagnosis was completed after many months of observation and assessment so it right therefore that he has been given an indefinite hospital order, both for his own treatment and to protect the public.”