Court told Clegg lied about role in shooting

Paratrooper Lee Clegg (32) lied about his role in the fatal shooting of two teenage "joyriders", it was stated at the Appeal …

Paratrooper Lee Clegg (32) lied about his role in the fatal shooting of two teenage "joyriders", it was stated at the Appeal Court in Belfast yesterday.

Mr Reginald Weir QC, prosecuting, said Clegg had denied firing after a stolen car passed his patrol on the Glen Road, west Belfast, in 1990. However the judge who acquitted him of murdering a passenger, Ms Karen Reilly, and convicted him of attempting to wound the driver, Mr Martin Peake, who also died, said the soldier's account was "quite untruthful".

Mr Weir referred to the judgment of Mr Justice Kerr last March when he stated: "I am satisfied beyond any doubt that Clegg did fire after the car."

Clegg is appealing a four-year sentence for attempting to wound Mr Peake with intent to do grievous bodily harm. He has been free on licence since 1995 and is back with the Parachute Regiment. The hearing is due to finish today.