Today in Focus ‘The sacrifice’: was Kai Shannon wrongfully convicted of murder? Part 2
Oct 17, 2025
Investigative reporter Emily Dugan, from The Guardian, delves into the controversial conviction of Kai Shannon for the murder of Wahab Zaaki. She unfolds a secretly recorded conversation revealing hints of police pressure against a key witness. Discussions emerge about Kai's strategy to use this tape in seeking a review of his conviction. Emily also highlights testimonies indicating that witness accounts were influenced by threats. With new leads sparking a full CCRC review, she questions the evidence and raises doubts about Kai's guilt, reflecting on the complexities of justice.
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Secret Prison Call Confronts Key Witness
- Kai secretly recorded a phone call from prison confronting Rhys Williams about naming him to police.
- The tape captures Rhys emotional, implying group decisions and saying Kai was a "sacrifice."
Why The CCRC Initially Declined The Tape
- The CCRC rejected the first application saying the call used slang and vague language, so it wasn't definitive.
- The CCRC also noted Rhys's credibility had already been central at trial and appeal, reducing the tape's impact.
Witness's Mother Describes Police Pressure
- Emily traced Rhys Williams via his mother, who confirmed Rhys was in prison and felt heavy pressure from police.
- His mother said police threatened to charge Rhys with murder if he didn't name someone else.