Doherty Faces Legal Action Over Party Death

4 months ago 09th Jul 03:35

Rocker Pete Doherty is facing a private prosecution over the death of a man who plunged from a balcony at a party attended by the controversial star.

The Babyshambles frontman was at a bash at an apartment in east London in December 2006 when an argument broke out among guests, leading to budding actor Mark Blanco toppling from a ledge onto the street below. He later died in hospital from severe head injuries.

Blanco's death came amid speculation that Doherty, his bodyguard Johnny'Headlock' Jeannevol, and party host Paul Roundhill were involved in the incident. Jeannevol even confessed to murder when interviewed by police - but later retracted it.

Cops ruled out suspicious circumstances and insisted Mr Blanco had either committed suicide or plunged to his death as he tried to jump on to a nearby lamp-post.

The investigation would relate to Doherty, Roundhill and Headlock. All three have questions to answer.The Blanco family is considering a private prosecution

But suspicion still surrounds the case - and Doherty is now facing the possibility of legal action brought by the dead man's mother, Sheila Blanco.

Her barrister, Michael Wolkind QC, says, "The investigation would relate to Doherty, Roundhill and Headlock. All three have questions to answer.The Blanco family is considering a private prosecution".

A variety show - headed by British funnyman Jimmy Carr - to raise fundsfor the legal action will be held at London's Bloomsbury Theater on Wednesday (08Jul09).