Crooked House suspects released from bail

Six individuals who were arrested last year in connection with the fire at the Crooked House pub have been released from bail but continue to be under investigation.

Staffordshire Police initially treated the incident as arson and arrested six individuals between August and October of last year.

The pub, located in Himley near Dudley and once known as “Britain’s wonkiest” inn, was set alight on 5 August and was demolished two days after the blaze.

A police spokesperson has confirmed that all six individuals have been released from bail and are now classified as “released under investigation.”

The six individuals arrested ranged in age from 23 to 66.

ATE Farms, the owners of the pub, faced criticism from the local community after demolishing the pub while the investigation into the cause of the fire was still ongoing.

Following the demolition, campaigners have been advocating for the rebuilding of the Black Country landmark.

Originally constructed in 1765 as a farmhouse, the pub began to sink on one side due to local mining activities.

In February, South Staffordshire Council issued an enforcement notice to the pub’s owners, demanding its reconstruction, however, the owners have appealed and suggested rebuilding the pub at a different location.

The police have noted that releasing individuals from bail is standard practice after a prolonged period but said that the investigation remains ongoing.