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Kevin Draper Guilty of Manslaughter but Cleared of Murder in Jack O'Brien Death

Sentencing is set for July 4 following a jury conclusion that his actions were not fully justified in self-defence

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Overview

  • On June 18, 2025, a Manchester Crown Court jury found Kevin Draper, 55, guilty of manslaughter in the fatal stabbing of 27-year-old Jack O’Brien and acquitted him of murder
  • Draper stabbed O’Brien seven times in his Siddow Common, Leigh, home during an alleged attempt by O’Brien and two others to rob him of his drugs on December 3, 2024
  • The jury accepted that Draper faced a life-threatening situation but determined his use of force exceeded the bounds of lawful self-defence
  • Medical evidence showed O’Brien suffered seven stab wounds to his thighs, groin and chest and was pronounced dead at Manchester Royal Infirmary on December 4
  • Draper surrendered to police on December 4 and will return to Manchester Crown Court on July 4, 2025, for sentencing on his manslaughter conviction