The Story The forgotten postmaster ‘hounded to death’ by investigators
Nov 26, 2025
Guest Hugo Daniel, an investigative reporter for The Sunday Times, dives deep into the tragic story of Michael Mann, a postmaster affected by the Post Office Horizon scandal. He discusses how faulty software led to wrongful accusations and a devastating impact on Mann’s life. Listeners learn about Michael's background, his harrowing experiences with investigators, and the heartbreaking details of his suicide letter. The episode highlights the family's fight for justice and acknowledgment of Michael's innocence, shedding light on a deeply flawed system.
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Faulty IT Drove A National Injustice
- The Horizon computer system produced false shortfalls that led to hundreds of wrongful prosecutions.
- Sir Wyn's inquiry linked at least 13 suspected suicides to that system's failures.
Justice Reached Too Late For Many
- More than 4,000 people became eligible for compensation and many convictions were overturned.
- Yet numerous victims, including at least 13 suspected suicides, never lived to see justice.
Arrest In Front Of Colleagues And Home Search
- On August 16, 2013, five Post Office staff and police arrested Michael Mann at work and searched his home.
- Investigators seized holiday euros, his phone and stamps while he was held in a cell and later bailed.