Michael McGrath’s brother has welcomed a jury today finding David Benbow guilty of the Christchurch builder's murder in 2017, but said it was a "bittersweet" moment for his family.
The verdict follows a long six years of investigation and two trials after McGrath disappeared without a trace.
It is believed the ex-prison guard Benbow murdered his childhood friend shortly after McGrath started a romance with his ex-partner.
McGrath’s body was never found, and the trial was largely based on circumstantial evidence.
Speaking outside the High Court at Christchurch this afternoon, McGrath’s brother Simon spoke about the verdict.
“It is without doubt a hugely bittersweet moment.”
Simon said he was “hugely emotional” when hearing the verdict – telling media a weight has lifted from his shoulders.
“I’ve never heard anything like it. It’s been one hell of a ride over the last six years, and I’m just elated.”
At his second trial, David Benbow has been found guilty of murdering Michael McGrath. (Source: 1News)
He called it a “just verdict”.
Simon was asked what he would say to Benbow if he were in front of him following the verdict.
He simply said: “Where is Michael?”
In a tribute to his brother, Simon said: “Michael was a meticulous and talented builder who was hugely humble and unassuming. He is sorely missed.
“Michael has been taken away from us in the most cowardly, premeditated and murderous manner.
“The horrid nature, trauma and legacy of this despicable act will haunt the family for the rest of our lives.”
He thanked police for their work during the investigation, saying they “exemplified a masterclass in circumstantial information gathering”.
He also thanked the Crown prosecution team, court and jury for their “attention to detail in what has been a long and arduous trial”.
Detective Inspector Kylie Schaare, who was involved with the investigation, acknowledged the verdict, thanking McGrath’s family and friends, “who have conducted themselves with so much dignity and grace through what has been the worst time of their lives".
“They have had to endure the stress of a long investigation, two trials and having their loved one and their own lives laid bare in a courtroom.
“We knew that no outcome today could make up for the grief and loss they have endured, as nothing brings Michael back.
“My one hope is that they can now move forward in starting to process their grief and the loss of their son, brother, partner, and friend.
Schaare said her “one enduring wish” was that they could have “returned Michael to his family”.
She said that “without a doubt”, the investigation had been difficult for everyone involved, thanking investigators for their work over the last six years.
“We were hoping for justice for Michael and his family.
“It’s any parent's worst nightmare to have their loved one and son taken away from them, so obviously we’re happy with today’s outcome,” she said.
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