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Robert Davies Appears in Court Over Killing of Bailiff Jeff Blair in Shildon

The case now advances to Teesside Crown Court following a fatal street attack that has prompted a review of bailiff protections.

Overview

  • Robert Davies, 49, was remanded at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court on March 13 and is due to appear at Teesside Crown Court on March 16.
  • Davies is charged with murder, possession of an offensive weapon, and affray.
  • Jeff Blair, 55, a former Durham Constabulary officer working as a court bailiff, died after being attacked on Dent Street on March 10 and taken to James Cook University Hospital.
  • Detective Chief Inspector Sharon Alderson said officers will maintain a presence at the scene and appealed for witnesses to contact Durham Constabulary quoting incident reference 209 of March 10.
  • HM Courts and Tribunals Service offered condolences and said working practices will be reviewed to assess whether further protections for bailiffs are required.