THE family of a couple cleared of wrongdoing for their role in a violent incident have said they are relieved “justice has been done”.

Levi Draper, 27, and Harriet “Sherri Anne” Crittenden, 25, both of Willow Farm, in Crane Park Avenue, Wickford, were cleared of all charges.

They stood trial for a string of violent offences at Chelmsford Crown Court, including the attempted murder of Esther Doherty and possession of an offensive weapon.

Levi Draper was also charged with the murder of Hugh Doherty.

The jury had deliberated for nine hours and 27 minutes.

Judge Charles Gratwicke had directed them to reach a majority verdict of at least ten to two should they fail to agree unanimously.

Speaking after the verdicts were delivered by the jury yesterday afternoon, Sherri Anne’s mother Harriet Crittenden, who has been present with Ms Crittenden’s grandmother throughout all the legal proceedings, was tearful with relief.

She said: “Justice is justice.

“We are just so pleased that justice has been done.

“We are now looking forward to having them home with us and putting this behind us.

“The trial has been absolutely insane on our family and it has taken its toll on their children.”

Levi and Harriet have three children together and are expecting their fourth.

The couple who have sat side by side in the dock throughout the five-week trial burst into tears and hugged each other as the jury cleared them of all charges.

They also shook the hands of their defence barristers before leaving the dock.

Despite the Doherty family being visibly upset and frustrated with the outcome of the trial, Mrs Crittenden said they are not concerned about any possible repercussions.

She added: “The police will have to do their job.

“The children are looking forward to having their mum and dad home.”

When asked if they would be celebrating the outcome and end of the trial, Mrs Crittenden said: “No we will just be having a quiet night in with the children.”

The couple have been in custody ever since they were arrested in April, two days after driving away from their home where the violence took place.