How Did I Confront My Daughter's Murderer After Finding Her Body?

In a gripping tale of loss, resilience, and justice, Ann Ming's relentless pursuit of accountability for her daughter's murder led to significant changes in the UK legal system. After Julie’s tragic death in 1990, Ann fought against the double jeopardy law, which prevented retrials even when new evidence emerged. Her efforts culminated in the landmark Criminal Justice Act 2003, allowing prosecutions to proceed under compelling new circumstances, paving the way for her daughter’s killer to finally face justice.

Last updated: 02 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Julie Ming disappeared in 1990; her body was found months later by her mother, Ann.
• The initial police investigation failed to uncover crucial evidence.
• William Dunlop, a labourer with a history of violence, was eventually implicated.
• Ann Ming campaigned for changes to the double jeopardy law, leading to a significant legal reform.
• Dunlop was retried and convicted under the new legislation in 2005.
• Ann received an MBE for her efforts and continues to advocate for justice reform globally.

The Disappearance of Julie Ming

In late 1989, 22-year-old Julie Ming vanished from her home on Grange Avenue in Billingham, County Durham. Her mother, Ann Ming, became increasingly worried when she was unable to reach her daughter, prompting her to visit Julie's home. When there was no response, Ann, alongside her son Gary, broke in, only to find that Julie was nowhere to be seen. This marked the beginning of a harrowing journey for Ann, as she grappled with the uncertainty and fear surrounding her daughter's disappearance.

Despite Ann's insistence that Julie would never abandon her young son, Kevin, the police speculated that she had run away to London. This dismissive attitude from law enforcement only added to Ann's frustration. A forensic search of the home, lasting five days, yielded no clues, leaving Ann feeling helpless and desperate.

The Heartbreaking Discovery

Three months later, on 1 February 1990, Ann returned to the house to help her son-in-law, Andrew, deal with a foul odour emanating from the bathroom. As she pushed a loose bath panel, her worst fears were realised: she discovered Julie's decaying body, wrapped in a blanket. The trauma of this moment was indescribable, as Ann relayed her experience: "I was hysterical, screaming, 'She’s under the bath, she’s under the bath!'"

The Investigation and Suspicions

Following the grim discovery, police investigations led them to suspect William 'Billy' Dunlop, who had previously lived nearby and had a violent past. Dunlop's connection to Julie was particularly troubling; they had once had a brief relationship. When detectives searched Dunlop's home, they uncovered Julie's house key hidden beneath the floorboards, further implicating him in her murder.

In an almost surreal twist, police had conducted a search of Julie’s home just feet away from her body without discovering it. Ann's anguish deepened as she sought answers from the officers involved: "I wanted to ask, 'What the hell did you do in the house for five days?'" Despite the catastrophic failure, no officers faced severe consequences; in fact, the inspector involved received a promotion—a move that left Ann feeling betrayed and unheard.

The Quest for Justice

Although Dunlop was charged with murder on 13 February 1990, the jury could not reach a verdict in both the initial trial and a retrial, allowing him to walk free. Years passed, and Dunlop continued his life unchecked until 1997 when he was sentenced to seven years for attacking a pregnant girlfriend. While incarcerated, a breakthrough occurred: Dunlop confessed to killing Julie during a police interview, stating, "I just lost it and got up and strangled her."

However, due to the double jeopardy law—an archaic rule preventing retrials when a jury acquits—Dunlop could only be charged with perjury, receiving a mere six-year sentence for lying during his trials. Ann found herself outraged by this miscarriage of justice and resolved to take action.

Advocacy for Change

Determined to challenge the legal system, Ann wrote letters to government officials, including then-Home Secretary Jack Straw. Her handwritten letters detailed her plight and the need for change, igniting a campaign that would gain momentum over the years. Ann's tenacity was further bolstered by support from key figures like Criminal Justice Minister Lord Falconer, who helped elevate her cause.

Ann’s relentless pursuit of justice culminated in a significant legal reform: on 4 April 2005, the double jeopardy law was abolished in England and Wales as part of the Criminal Justice Act 2003. This landmark change empowered the justice system to retry serious offences if new and compelling evidence emerged.

A Breakthrough in the Case

On 11 September 2005, Dunlop became the first individual convicted under the new legislation, receiving a 17-year sentence—one for each year that Julie's murder had gone unpunished. Ann remembers the moment vividly: "Dunlop was in a glass case with three wardens around him. He felt trapped because he’d trapped himself by bragging that he could get away with murder." The relief and vindication Ann felt were palpable as she celebrated this long-awaited justice.

The Legacy of a Mother's Love

Ann Ming’s advocacy did not go unnoticed; in 2007, she received an MBE for her contributions to the criminal justice system. Her story of perseverance inspired many, leading to 15 convictions since the change in the law. Ann later authored a book detailing her fight for justice, sharing her journey with others who may be facing similar battles.

When approached by ITV to turn her story into a drama featuring actress Sheridan Smith, Ann welcomed the opportunity. "I have watched everything she’s ever been in and love her," Ann expressed, finding solace in the portrayal of her story.

During the filming process, Sheridan immersed herself in Ann's world, studying her interviews to embody her spirit authentically. Ann reflected on the emotional toll of reliving her experience, stating, "You’ve spent nine weeks with it, but for me, it’s been 35 years."

A Continuing Mission

Despite her age and the trials she has faced, Ann remains undeterred in her mission. She aspires to address the double jeopardy law in other countries, including Australia and America, advocating for justice reform on a global scale. "I want to change things worldwide," she asserts, highlighting the necessity for legal systems to adapt and protect victims' rights.

Ann’s bond with her daughter, Julie, remains a driving force in her life. She recalls the deep connection they shared and the pain of losing a child, a grief that never truly fades. "I could see how she was changing... It doesn’t matter what else happens; I can never get over the loss of a child. Nobody does." This poignant reflection underscores the emotional weight of her journey and the motivation behind her advocacy.

As Ann's story continues to unfold, evident in the upcoming ITV drama I Fought The Law and documentary The Ann Ming Story, her legacy lives on. She remains a powerful symbol of a mother's love and the relentless pursuit of justice in the face of unimaginable loss. How many more voices will join Ann in the fight for justice reform?

#JusticeForJulie #DoubleJeopardy #AnnMing

FAQs

What happened to Julie Ming?

Julie Ming disappeared in 1989, and her body was discovered by her mother, Ann, in early 1990, leading to a lengthy investigation and subsequent legal battles.

Who was William Dunlop?

William Dunlop was a labourer with a violent past and a brief relationship with Julie. He was eventually convicted of her murder under the reformed double jeopardy law.

What is the double jeopardy law?

The double jeopardy law prevented a person from being tried again for the same crime after an acquittal. This law was abolished in England and Wales in 2005, allowing retrials under new evidence.

What changes occurred due to Ann Ming's campaign?

Ann Ming's advocacy led to the abolition of the double jeopardy law, allowing retrials for serious crimes when compelling new evidence emerges, resulting in numerous convictions since.

How did Ann Ming's efforts impact the legal system?

Her campaign highlighted the need for legal reform and contributed to significant changes in the justice system, showcasing the importance of victim's rights and accountability.