The parents of Ewen Macdonald – the man acquitted of murdering brother-in-law and business partner Scott Guy – say they are “totally at peace” with the not guilty verdict.
Marlene and Kerry Macdonald said nothing when they left court on Tuesday, despite being flanked by reporters, but today released a statement about the verdict.
“We are no longer confused and bewildered but rather totally at peace with the knowledge that we at least have [Ewen’s] truth,” the statement read.
“Tuesday's verdict was correct,” the couple say.
They say their son has “no words big enough” to express his remorse for the pain he has caused Kylee and the Guy family throughout the trial and when he committed the arson and the vandalism.
“The trial has been brutal for many especially Kylee and the Guy family. Ewen knows he is responsible for that as well as the physical crimes he committed.
“We continue to give our unconditional love and support along with Bryan and Jo to Anna and our wonderful grandkids.”
Their son has also received a number of other charges and has pleaded to them but the content of those charges have been suppressed.
In their statement, Mr and Mrs Macdonald thank the staff at Manawatu Prison and the police for being “gracious and receptive”.
Marlene and Kerry’s full statement:
"Over 480 days ago our son Ewen was arrested for Scott's murder and we spoke in our statement at the time of our support and unconditional love for Ewen. Over the months since, that support and love has got us all through this ordeal. We also commented that "the truth was keenly sought by all".
"After talking to Ewen at every prison visit possible and hundreds of phone conversations we are no longer 'confused and bewildered' but rather totally at peace with the knowledge that we at least have his truth. Tuesday's verdict was correct.
"The trial has been brutal for many especially Kylee and the Guy family. Ewen knows he is responsible for that as well as the physical crimes he committed. Ewen has no words big enough to express his remorse or apologies.
"We feel that the media have forgotten through the weeks of the trial about the real tragedy which is Scott's death, and all who miss him. Wife, kids, mother, father, brother, sisters and wider families. Pause for a moment whilst you follow this spectacle and reflect on Scott's passing and all it means.
"We continue to give our unconditional love and support along with Bryan and Jo to Anna and our wonderful grandkids.
"We as a family have had enormous love and support from family, friends and colleagues which has given us the strength to get through the last months and these last four weeks. Thank you one and all.
"We cannot end this statement without mentioning our deep appreciation of the respect, dignity and great compassion shown to us and Ewen by the staff at Manawatu Prison during this time.
"We have also had long hours with the New Zealand Police giving statements etc. and must say that they have been gracious and receptive to any of our concerns and have worked to resolve them all which has been greatly appreciated by us."
3 News
source: newshub archive
