James Hartson – brother of football pundit John – became a barrister after 20 years in the police
James Hartson became a popular and highly-respected barrister after a 20-year career in policing(Image: Robert Melen)
A Welsh crown court fell silent today after the unexpected and sudden death of leading barrister James Hartson.
The body of James Hartson – brother of former Welsh international footballer turned pundit John Hartson – was found at a property in Swansea on Thursday morning, February 5. The 53-year-old’s death is not being treated as suspicious.
Proceedings at Swansea Crown Court were suspended on Thursday as a mark of respect. For the biggest stories in Wales first sign up to our daily newsletter here
Adjourning a murder trial, Judge Geraint Walters told the jury there had been an “unexplained and sudden death” of a member of the Bar which had “shaken” the court.
Before becoming a barrister, James Hartson spent 20 years in the police in London and Cardiff, including serving in Special Branch and as a detective at New Scotland Yard.
Former Wales striker John Hartson(Image: Richard Williams)
South Wales Police confirmed the body of a 53-year-old man was found at a property in the Port Tennant area of Swansea on Thursday morning following welfare concerns.
Formal identification is yet to take place but the man’s family and the coroner have been informed.
Police said the death was not being treated as suspicious.
The family tragedy for ex-Celtic, West Ham and Arsenal striker, John Hartson, 50, followed the loss of his elder sister Hayley in 2020.
Following sHayley’s death, John posted a picture of them together, saying: “It is with great sadness today we put our Beloved Hayley to rest.”We are totally devastated.. she will be sorely missed.”There are no words. RIP Big sister.”
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