TWO men and a woman have been cleared of kidnap and false imprisonment after the prosecution dropped the case against them.

James Bicker, of Canterbury Road, South Willesborough, denied twice kidnapping Adam Harvey between September 23 and 26 last year.

Fabian Tuga, 23, of Essella Road, Ashford, denied one charge of kidnapping Mr Harvey.

Bicker, 26, and 30-year-old Suemma Newton, of Kingfisher House, Fordway, Ashford, pleaded not guilty to falsely imprisoning Theresa Pawsey on September 25 last year.

Bicker’s brother Mark, 33, was originally charged with him over the matter but died while in custody. He faced the same charges, as well as one of possessing an imitation firearm.

The trial was due to start this week, but not guilty verdicts were entered on all charges after Jonathan Higgs prosecuting, told Judge John MacDonald, QC, that no further evidence would be offered.