Norwegian Teenager's Trial Ends in Hung Jury
A jury in England has been unable to reach a verdict in the case of a 19-year-old Norwegian man accused of traveling to the United Kingdom to commit a murder on behalf of an international criminal organization allegedly supported by Iran.
Accusations and Arrest
Johannes Kongsnes Natland, 19, was accused of agreeing with the 'Swedish Foxes' gang to assassinate an unspecified individual for €25,000 (£21,500) in March of last year. Authorities apprehended him at a hotel in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, just two days after his arrival in the UK. During the arrest, armed police recovered two firearms and 12 live rounds of ammunition.
Court Proceedings and Outcome
Natland admitted to charges of possessing firearms and ammunition but pleaded not guilty to conspiracy to murder. Prosecutors have indicated their intention to pursue a retrial, and Natland will remain in custody. The jury began deliberations on Tuesday morning and, after more than 14 hours and 43 minutes, was discharged by Mr. Justice Lavender shortly before 15:00 BST, having failed to reach a verdict.
Source: Jury fails to reach verdict in Norwegian 'hitman' trial