Man, 49, charged with murder of court bailiff Jeff Blair in County Durham
A 49-year-old man has been charged with the murder of a court bailiff who was attacked at work.
Robert Davies is charged with murder, possession of an offensive weapon and affray.
He was remanded in custody before appearing at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
Durham Constabulary said officers were called shortly after 1pm on Tuesday to reports that a man had been assaulted on Dent Street in Shildon, County Durham.
Former police officer Jeff Blair, 55, was seriously injured and died after being taken to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.
Prior to becoming an enforcement officer, Mr Blair worked as a police officer with Durham Constabulary for 22 years before retiring in 2017.
Detective Chief Inspector Sharon Alderson, who led the investigation, said: “This was an extremely distressing incident that has caused great shock to the local community.
“Our thoughts are with Jeff’s family and everyone who knew and loved him at this difficult time.
“We will maintain a police presence at the scene and I would like to thank the public and surrounding residents for their patience, understanding and co-operation as we work to establish exactly what happened.
“We would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information that could assist the investigation and has not yet spoken to us.”
His death was described by a court and court spokesman as a “shocking and horrific incident”.
A colleague at a court in the north-east of England, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “He was a lovely man and a complete gentleman.
“He was always polite to people and would say ‘please don’t do that’ rather than being overbearing.
“He was a peacemaker, not at all aggressive.”
The source said Mr Blair was working on Tuesday and was accompanied by a locksmith to a property when a confrontation occurred.
A spokesman for HM Courts and Tribunals Service said: “Our thoughts and condolences are with Jeff Blair’s family, friends and those who worked with him.
“This was a shocking and terrible incident.
“Violence against our hard-working staff is completely unacceptable and we are providing support to colleagues affected by this tragedy.”
It is understood the court service will now examine what happened and whether further measures need to be taken to protect bailiffs during their work.
Court bailiffs or bailiffs can visit people’s homes if debts such as council tax bills, fines or court orders are outstanding, according to the government website.
A bailiff may be used to serve court documents or issue notices and subpoenas.
The terraced street was cordoned off on Thursday afternoon and a large police presence remained at the scene.
His family said in a statement: “Jeff was a much-loved son, brother, father, partner, uncle and good friend to many.
“His ability to apply humor and laughter to every situation and lighten the mood will be irreplaceable for our family.
“We are so sorry to have lost Jeff in such a tragic situation and he will be forever missed and always remembered with great love and affection.”
Darlington Storm Basketball Club said Mr Blair was a “former player, coach and committee member”.
In a tribute message shared on social media, the club said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this traumatic and distressing time.”
Police have appealed for anyone with information to call Durham Constabulary on 101, citing incident number 209 of March 10.
Information can also be sent anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
