A 17-YEAR-OLD boy accused of attempted murder of a man in Basingstoke has been released in the middle of the trial due to legal reasons.

The boy from Thatcham, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has had the case against home dropped after the judge held discussions with his counsels and the prosecution.

Amman Majid, 18, of Chivers Close and Charlie Costen, 20, of Harlech Close, are also facing charges of attempted murder of Andrew Loake, 47, on the evening of Tuesday, January 30 near the Black Bridge on Buckskin Lane.

Their trials will continue as usual.

READ MORE: Teenagers accused of attempted murder rode bike at man while wielding machete

The case is being heard at Winchester Crown CourtThe case is being heard at Winchester Crown Court (Image: -)

Majid is also charged with possessing a sharp blade in Buckskin Lane, on the same day, and with failing to disclose to police the key to access a mobile phone on June 4.

Speaking to the jurors on Friday, August 2, Judge Paul Dugdale said the boy was discharged due to legal reasons rather than case determination facts.

“Yesterday (Thursday, August 1) we were dealing with a number of legal submissions made on behalf of the boy, 17,” the judge said.

“At the end of prosecution case, I have determined the case against the 17-year-old boy should not proceed further.”

The judge added that the jury still has to pronounce a not-guilty verdict for the boy, although the decision was taken by the judge.

“Because that decision is based on legal reasons rather than case determination facts, it is a decision that I have to make rather than you,” the judge said.

“But, because he is in your charge, I have no power to enter a not-guilty verdict on him. So we get the rather odd situation that you have the power to make the non-guilty verdict and I have to make the decision.”

The judge then nominated juror number one to pronounce a not-guilty verdict for the boy in relation to two charges against him.

SEE ALSO: Buckskin Lane: Attempted murder victim speaks in court

Meanwhile, the defence counsels for Majid and Costen informed the judge that their clients won’t give evidence or call any witnesses.

This means, the judge will give legal directions to the jury on Monday, August 5, before the prosecution and defence counsels make their respective closing statements.

The jury is expected to be sent for deliberations on Tuesday, August 6.