A three-Weekweek hearing at couple as kind and hardworking. Vigils and tributes followed as detectives carried out extensive enquiries, and the community rallied around grieving family and friends.
The Accused: Derek Martin
Derek Martin, 66, of The Orchards, Moulsecoomb Way, Brighton, was arrested shortly after the discovery and has remained in custody at Lewes Prison pending trial. Martin has admitted to killing Joshua and Chloe but denies murder. He has pleaded guilty to manslaughter, arguing that his mental state at the time diminished his responsibility.
Important: Martin denies murder and is presumed innocent of that charge unless and until proven guilty in court.
Diminished Responsibility at the Heart of the Case
Under English law, a murder charge may be reduced to manslaughter if the defence proves a recognised mental condition substantially impaired the defendant’s ability to understand conduct, form rational judgment, or exercise self-control.
The trial is expected to hear expert psychiatric evidence, alongside testimony from investigators and civilian witnesses. The prosecution is expected to argue that, despite any mental-health issues, Martin intended to kill, while the defence will argue his mental state significantly reduced his culpability.
Trial Details
- Start date: Monday 6 October 2025
- Duration: Approximately three weeks
- Court: Brighton Crown Court
- Judge: Dame Justine Thornton (Mrs Justice Thornton)
- Jury’s task: Decide between murder and manslaughter due to diminished responsibility
Why This Trial Matters
- Community impact: The deaths of Joshua and Chloe deeply affected Newhaven. The trial is a crucial step toward justice and closure.
- Legal significance: Diminished-responsibility defences are relatively rare and closely scrutinised; outcomes can influence future cases involving mental health and serious violence.
- Public interest: The case raises broader questions about mental health, accountability, and public safety.
What to Expect
As proceedings begin, the court will hear a timeline of events, forensic findings, and psychiatric assessments. Jurors will weigh whether Martin’s mental state at the time meets the legal threshold for diminished responsibility. The verdict will shape how the tragedy of June 2023 is understood—and what justice looks like for the families of Joshua and Chloe Bashford.
