Renewed appeal for “brutal and calculated” murder in County Derry in 2004

Police have again appealed for information about a “brutal and premeditated” murder in County Derry 20 years ago.

Patrick Devine, 51, was found shot to death in his Claudy home on September 13, 2004.

Investigators believe that Mr Devine was the victim of a contract killing. A reward of up to £20,000 has been offered for information leading to the conviction of those responsible.

“People resented his success”

Mr Devine, a sheep farmer and part-time nurse, was found shot dead at his home on Mullintill Road in Claudy.

Despite extensive police investigations and the arrest of five people during the investigation, no one was held accountable for his murder.

“It is now 20 years since Patrick's life was brutally and deliberately taken and his family's wait for justice has taken far too long,” said Detective Chief Inspector Mark Gibson.

“Mr Devine was well known in the area, particularly for his agricultural activities and also for his work as a nurse. We believe some people resented his success.

“Police continue to believe that Patrick was the victim of a contract killing carried out by an organised crime gang with paramilitary links, based on rumours of alleged sheep theft and land disputes, although Mr Devine himself had no previous convictions.”

“Dangerous, ruthless” murderers

DCI Gibson said he believed “loyalties had changed” and perhaps someone might now feel able to come forward with important information to help solve the case.

“On this 20th anniversary of his assassination, we ask the public for support and help,” he said.

“I ask people to think about what happened to Patrick 20 years ago and the brutal circumstances in which he died. He was shot several times in the head and chest while eating a meal at home.”

“The people who did this are dangerous, unscrupulous and unfortunately have never been held accountable.

“I appeal to anyone who knows anything about Patrick's murder to come forward, talk to us and help us end the pain his family has had to endure all these years.”

“In the 20 years since Patrick’s murder, circumstances and loyalties may have changed.

“If anyone feels they can talk to us now, we are here and ready to listen. You can reach us on 101.”

Reward

Crimestoppers is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for Mr Devine's murder.

The independent charity guarantees that anyone who contacts them via their website or by phone will remain completely anonymous.

The reward will only be paid for information passed directly to Crimestoppers and not to the police.

The charity can be contacted on 0800 555111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.