British Man Faces Murder Trial Allegedly Masterminded Torture Killing in Mossley

John Belfield, a British man accused of masterminding the 2022 torture and murder of Thomas Campbell in Mossley, England, denies involvement, claiming he was watching the film Finding Nemo with his daughter and nieces at the time. Campbell was found dead after being ambushed, tortured, and robbed by three men; two assailants, Reece Steven and Steven Cleworth, have been sentenced to life in prison, while Campbell's ex-wife, Coleen Campbell, received a 13-year sentence for manslaughter and conspiracy to rob. Authorities allege Belfield orchestrated the attack, motivated by jealousy over Campbell's relationship with Belfield's ex-partner and a desire to steal drugs Campbell allegedly stored. Belfield fled to South America following the crime but was deported back to the UK in 2024 to face charges including murder, conspiracy to murder, manslaughter, and drug-related offenses. While Belfield admitted to discussing plans to steal drugs from Campbell, he insists he had no intent to use violence and denies being present at the crime scene. The case remains under trial as Belfield maintains his alibi and denies jealousy or any direct involvement in the murder.