ITV brings to life the emotional journey of Ann Ming, a mother fueled by love and determination to seek justice for her murdered daughter.
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A Mother’s Quest for Justice: ITV’s I Fought the Law
The gripping true story of a mother’s relentless pursuit for justice is set to captivate audiences as ITV presents the series I Fought the Law. Starring Sheridan Smith as Ann Ming, this four-part drama chronicles her fight to challenge the double jeopardy law, which prevented her daughter’s murderer from facing trial after an initial acquittal.
The series delves into Ann’s 15-year battle for justice, sparking discussions on legal reform and the emotional toll of such a harrowing journey.
The Heartbreaking Background of Ann Ming
Ann Ming’s story begins with the tragic murder of her daughter, Julie Hogg, a 22-year-old pizza delivery worker.
On November 16, 1989, Julie was killed in her Teesside home. Despite extensive police investigations, her remains were not discovered until 80 days later, when Ann found her daughter’s body partially covered by a blanket while lifting a bath panel.
Reflecting on that devastating moment, Ann expressed her initial feelings of rage towards the authorities, stating, “I felt fury towards the ones who didn’t find her.” However, she later shifted her perspective, saying, “I now have no animosity towards Cleveland Police whatsoever.” This change underscores the profound impact the tragedy had on her life.
Julie’s neighbor, William ‘Billy’ Dunlop, was acquitted of her murder twice in 1991, as juries failed to reach a verdict. Following his acquittal, Dunlop infamously bragged about committing the “perfect murder” in local pubs, even hosting an acquittal party thrown by his family. His subsequent criminal history includes a conviction for grievous bodily harm in 1997, during which he stabbed his ex-partner and violently assaulted another man, leading to a prison sentence.
Ann’s Fight Against the Double Jeopardy Law
Driven by an unwavering resolve, Ann Ming took her fight to every level of the justice system, from the Crown Prosecution Service to the government. Her relentless efforts culminated in the landmark change of the double jeopardy law, allowing Dunlop to be retried for Julie’s murder. In 2006, he was finally convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment. However, the pain did not end there for Ann and her family. Now, 19 years into his sentence, Dunlop is eligible for parole, a development that has reignited anguish for the Ming family.
In a recent update, Ann and her grandson, Kevin Hogg, expressed their disappointment upon learning that the parole board had recommended Dunlop’s transfer to an open prison after serving more than 18 years. Although this move was ultimately rejected earlier this summer, the mere possibility of his release continues to haunt Ann. The emotional toll of this ongoing battle is evident in her statements regarding the justice system and the challenges families face in their quest for closure.
Sheridan Smith’s Portrayal of Ann Ming
Sheridan Smith’s portrayal of Ann Ming in the series has garnered attention for its authenticity and emotional depth. Smith described the role as “the hardest thing” she has ever done. In an interview, she expressed her disbelief at not knowing Ann’s story prior to the project, saying, “How do I not know this story? This is incredible. I was thrilled that they wanted me.” Committed to accurately representing Ann’s experience, Smith delved deeply into the role, acknowledging the challenges of embodying such a traumatic life. “I know I can’t, because I haven’t been through that trauma, but I would beat myself up if I didn’t make myself feel at least a fraction of what she went through,” she explained.
The series I Fought the Law airs on Sunday evenings at 9 PM on ITV One, with the entire series available for streaming on ITV X. This powerful dramatization not only highlights the personal journey of Ann Ming but also serves as a poignant reminder of the broader implications of the justice system and the importance of legal reform.
