A MAN has been convicted of killing his landlord after being told he had to leave the property.
Michael Hughes, 27, was cleared of murdering 64-year-old John Keirdie Watson, who never regained consciousness after being attacked at his home on Ripley Street in Lancaster.
He died six months later in November from complications.
Preston Cr
own Court heard that Hughes had punched Mr Watson in the face after losing his temper and then stamped on his head as he lay on the floor.
Hughes of Brindle Close, Lancaster, had denied a charge of murder.
However, the jury returned a unanimous verdict of manslaughter.
The defendant had been a lodger at Mr Watson's address for about a year before events on May 27 last year.
He had been in the habit of letting two of his friends stay in his room, despite having been told not to.
Two days before the attack, Mr Watson had sent him a letter, telling him to leave by the end of June.
Giving evidence in the trial, Hughes said he was not a nasty person.
He said he had lost control of himself and may have thought he was going to be attacked when the landlord shouted to be let in at his door.
He admitted punching the man once and then stamping twice on his head.
Defence barrister Mr Stuart Denney QC said they would want the defendant to have a mental health assessment before sentencing takes place.
Hughes was remanded in custody by Judge Stuart Baker and is due to be sentenced at the end of July.
Detective Inspector Phil Burke from Lancashire Constabulary's Major Investigation Team said: "Naturally we are pleased with the verdict. Mr Keirdie Watson did not deserve to die.
"Michael Hughes regarded him as his landlord and family friend but admitted to stamping on his head causing the injuries which eventually killed him.
"This action alone showed an intention to cause really serious harm and resulted in a trial for murder.
"On this occasion the jury have had a number of complex issues to consider relating to Hughes and his actions before coming to their verdict.
"I am satisfied with the final decision and Michael Hughes will now face a prison sentence for killing Mr Keirdie Watson.
"I would like to thank the Crown Prosecution Service for their work in this investigation and also to Counsel for presenting this case so well.
"I would also pay tribute to the witnesses who came forward with information. I hope today can bring some closure for Mr Watson's family and friends."
