Police offer a $100,000 reward and immunity in the Arthur Easton murder case

Police have offered a $100,000 reward and possible immunity from prosecution as part of an appeal for information into the murder of Arthur Easton in Papakura, Auckland, 39 years ago.

Detective Inspector Warrick Adkin announced the reward at Co. Manukau Police Station.

The prize will be valid until January 24, 2025.

Easton, 52, was stabbed to death by an intruder who broke into his home in October 1985.

The appeal comes just weeks after Police Commissioner Andrew Coster announced he had met Alan Hall and his family apologize for being wrongly convicted of murder.

In August, police announced that two former employees involved in the original murder investigation and a former prosecutor involved in the subsequent trial had been detained. accused of a miscarriage of justice.

All three pleaded not guilty.

Adkin said immunity would also be considered for any accomplice who is not the primary perpetrator and provided information or evidence that would support a successful conviction.

“On Sunday, October 13, 1985, 39 years ago this month, at approximately 8 p.m., an intruder entered the Easton family home on Grove Road in Papakura,” he said, describing the killing.

“One of Arthur’s sons disturbed the intruder and alerted the household. The perpetrator was wearing a brown woolen hat pulled over his face. He was also armed with a bayonet.

“Arthur and his two teenage sons clashed with an intruder in the hallway, which led to a violent argument. “Arthur, who was 52 years old at the time, was stabbed multiple times and later died at his home from his injuries.”

Adkin said the perpetrator then fled the house, leaving behind his hat and bayonet.

“To this day, Arthur’s killer remains at large and the investigation will lead to this person being brought to justice.

“We know there will still be people in our community who know who is responsible for Arthur’s death. I encourage them to do the right thing now and come forward.”

Adkin said the Easton family was aware of the award and supported the approach. They were kept informed of the investigation every month.

Adkin said police need the public’s help in solving the case so the Easton family can finally get the answers they deserve.

Adkin said police had launched an 0800 number where information could be passed directly to the investigation team, along with a dedicated email address.

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