By the way, I didn't say that WOD killed the child for throwing stones at his car. That's the meaning you took from it, and it's an incorrect interpretation.

A struggle took place and WOD applied too much force. Nobody suggested that he set out to kill Robert.

What he did afterwards was abominable and he fully deserved to be punished for that but I still believe that he should not have been convicted of manslaughter, going on the facts available. That's my opinion, taking an objective view of the court reports. I realise it's not a popular opinion, and if more facts become available I'll revisit it, but disapproval isn't a good reason to change it.

Bock, I can see your point with regard to how Donoghue may or may not have been mis-represented as a paedophile, but to advocate that he not spend a minute behind bars for the crime for which he was convicted is pretty hard to take. I mean I really enjoy your website, but the view you have expressed here today leaves me more than a little surprised.

Why is it that I consistently encounter individuals in society who advocate on behalf of those clearly guilty of a crime. The fact that he was not a paedophile or was mis-represented as such does not in any way shape of form mitigate his actions.

That boy is dead, he died at the hands of a man that took his life as you point out, for throwing stones at his new car. He is dead Bock and as a consequence we shall never hear his side of the story. Mr O Donoghue certainly made sure of that, albeit "accidently".

Dead men tell no tales. I'm no conspiracy theorist, but I would have liked to have heard what the victim might have had to say had he survived the attack.

Last thing, and I know how predictable it sounds, however it must be said. Had that child been mine, he would not at this time be attending lectures at Leeds University, he would never had seen the inside of a court room. His life would be forfeit, he would most likely live and subsequently die in my basement. I would be subsequently arrested and charged in his place. No threats, no promises, simply a guarantee.

Would you write in my defence?

Your precise words are ""myself and practically everybody else disagree with you"

You're not in a position to know what "practically everybody else " thinks.