Learn about Martyn Smith, the friend of Ben Field, initially facing murder, conspiracy, fraud, and burglary charges in the cases of Peter Farquhar and Ann Moore-Martin, but ultimately found not guilty in a later verdict.
Who is Martyn Smith?
Martyn Smith, a magician hailing from Cornwall, was accused of being an accomplice to the murderer Ben Field. Allegations suggested that Martyn collaborated with Ben to carry out the murder of Peter and conspired to murder Ann.
Martyn and Ben were friends, and Ben deceived Peter, a retired teacher, into a false relationship, ultimately moving into his residence. Martyn, also a former student of Peter Farquhar at the University of Buckingham, became a lodger in Peter's home at Ben's behest.
Moreover, Martyn also resided in the homes of Ann Moore-Martin and Liz Zettl, both of whom were potential victims of Ben.
Despite the circumstances, Martyn vehemently denied having any knowledge of Ben's relationship with Peter or any awareness of his fraudulent intentions towards Peter. According to Martyn, he had no idea about Ben's nefarious activities and maintained his innocence regarding the accusations brought against him.
What Happened to Ben Fields Friend Martin?
Martyn Smith faced charges alongside Field for the murder of Peter Farquhar and conspiracy to murder Ann Moore-Martin. Additionally, he was accused of fraud and one count of burglary. However, in a later verdict, Smith was found not guilty of all charges.
Throughout the trial, evidence presented to the jurors revealed that Field's motive for the crimes was primarily driven by "financial gain." Smith, on the other hand, appeared to be under the influence of Field's manipulations, becoming "greedy" and enthralled by him.
Smith admitted during the court proceedings that he sought counselling for a brief period following Peter Farquhar's death, feeling the need to talk to someone about the situation.
One notable point discussed during the trial was a bottle of whiskey that Smith had left at Peter Farquhar's residence, explaining that it did not fit in his rucksack. He expressed guilt over leaving it there and accepted some responsibility for the events that unfolded.
Where is Martyn Smith Now?
Martyn Smith has remained out of the public eye since his trial, during which he was acquitted of all charges. Initially, Martyn faced accusations of being involved in the murder of Peter Farquhar and conspiring to harm his neighbor Ann Moore-Martin. Additionally, he was charged with multiple counts of fraud and one count of burglary, alongside Ben Field.
According to the information presented to the jury, Martyn appeared "enthralled" by Ben and exhibited a strong interest in benefiting financially from the situation. It was revealed that he had received £10,000 from Peter's will. However, despite these allegations, Martyn was ultimately found not guilty of all charges.
During the trial, Martyn revealed that he sought counselling to cope with the aftermath of Peter's death, expressing the need to process his emotions and thoughts. Speaking candidly, he emphasized the importance of discussing his feelings with someone during such a challenging time.
Since the conclusion of the trial, Martyn has chosen to maintain a low profile, away from public attention. His acquittal marked the end of a tumultuous period in his life, and he now remains private as he moves forward beyond the legal proceedings.
What did Martyn Smith do?
Martyn Smith resided with Ben Field, Peter Farquhar, and Ann Moore-Martin, as Ben had convinced them to let him move in. In the BBC drama "The Sixth Commandment," Martyn, portrayed by actor Conor MacNeill, is depicted as being captivated by the convicted murderer Ben Field, and their friendship takes center stage.
After Ben successfully persuaded Peter Farquhar to alter his will and leave his estate to him, Martyn also received £10,000. However, the magician asserted that he had no prior knowledge of being named a beneficiary in the will.
Regarding Ben and Peter's relationship, Martyn claimed that he perceived it as "unusual but perfectly consensual," seemingly unaware of the sinister manipulations that were taking place.
During the trial, Martyn was questioned about a bottle of whiskey he had left at Peter's home due to its inability to fit in his rucksack. It was later revealed that Ben had been secretly lacing Peter's food and drinks with alcohol and drugs. Tragically, Peter's lifeless body was discovered next to a glass of whiskey.
When asked if he felt guilty about leaving the alcohol behind and if he blamed himself, Martyn expressed feelings of guilt and acknowledged a sense of responsibility for the events that transpired.
What Happened to Ben Fields Friend Martin-FAQ
1. What happened to Martyn Smith, Ben Field's friend?
Martyn Smith faced charges alongside Ben Field for the murder of Peter Farquhar and conspiracy to murder Ann Moore-Martin. Additionally, he was accused of fraud and one count of burglary. However, in a later verdict, Smith was found not guilty of all charges.
2. Who is Martyn Smith?
Martyn Smith is a magician from Cornwall accused of being an accomplice to murderer Ben Field, allegedly involved in the murder of Peter Farquhar and the conspiracy to murder Ann Moore-Martin.
3. What charges did Martyn Smith face?
Martyn Smith faced charges for the murder of Peter Farquhar and conspiracy to murder Ann Moore-Martin, along with counts of fraud and one count of burglary, alongside Ben Field.
4. What was the verdict in Martyn Smith's trial?
Martyn Smith was found not guilty of all charges brought against him during the trial, including the accusations related to the murder and conspiracy.
5. What was the motive behind Ben Field's crimes?
Jurors heard that the motive behind Ben Field's crimes was "financial gain," as he aimed to benefit financially from his actions.
