A picture not found on a Harrogate postcard

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Over the course of two weeks, the Stray Ferret covered a murder case which showed a different side to Harrogate — one which you will not find on postcards.

Jason Johnson was on trial for the murder of Paul Tillett back in September 2024, at Mr Tillett’s flat on Strawberry Dale. His co-accused, Philip Watson, had already admitted murder. Mr Johnson was acquitted.

The case shone a light on a seedy underbelly in our town — one of crack cocaine addiction, violence and issues over homeless people and their chaotic lives – a light you would not associate with leafy Harrogate and one I’m sure our readers found deeply upsetting.

During many hours of testimony at Leeds Crown Court, my colleague, Flora Grafton, and I sat through distressing details of how Mr Tillett was tortured to death by being tied up, kicked and stamped on multiple times and had his hair set on fire with a “makeshift flamethrower”.

The twisted killer Watson even carved a “W” into the deceased’s head, as though he was his property.

The case raised questions for the emergency services such as North Yorkshire Police, whom Mr Tillett reported the murderer to three times prior to the fatal attack. 

It is unimaginable how it must have been for Mr Tillett’s family to listen to each and every day in court. Whilst the evidence was grim and upsetting for myself and Flora to listen to, we understood why we had to report on this harrowing local case.

Without the Stray Ferret, none of the evidence put before the judge and jury would have been heard outside courtroom 8 in Leeds Crown Court.

We published 17 articles including details of how Mr Tillett came to die and a profile of his killer Watson.

The Stray Ferret’s role in reporting a case like this is crucial in maintaining transparency and accountability within the justice system and with local authorities. As a taxpayer, you have the right to know what’s going in the area you live. Our coverage means you have the full story, leaving no room for hearsay or rumour.

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