Summary
Our client was facing four counts of indecent assault on a girl under the age of 16 where the allegations were said to have occurred 30 years prior. Our client denied these charges completely. After an analysis of the evidence, our team of expert defence solicitors successfully submitted an argument of no case to answer, where we asserted that the Prosecution’s case was unreliable. Ultimately, our client was acquitted of all charges.
Details of the Case
The allegations were said to have occurred while our client was working at London Zoo, where the complainant undertook work experience as a teenager. The allegations were only reported to the Police nearly 30 years later, where the complainant claimed that she and our client had four sexual encounters during her time at the zoo.
When interviewed at the Police station, our client denied all the allegations. He asserted that he could not even remember the complainant working at the zoo, as not only had a significant amount of time passed but there were several volunteers working at the zoo at any given time.
Our Defence
Partner Andy Hobdell took on our client’s case, where he worked diligently to create a strong defence to corroborate our client’s account. It became quickly clear that many of the details in the complainant’s allegations were unreliable and were based purely on assumptions. In no way were there any direct ties between the allegations and our client.
Much of the complainant’s evidence relied on diary entries from the time of the allegation, which included no details identifying our client. Other than the fact that our client was working at the zoo during the relevant period, there was no other evidence to corroborate the complainant’s identification.
Our client was understandably very distressed by the allegations, as a conviction would have significant and potentially life-long consequences. Given that the circumstances of the allegations would suggest there was an abuse of trust, our client was at risk of receiving a prison sentence potentially ranging up to 1 year.
At Court
Our client’s case was scheduled for a 5-day trial, where he was represented in Court by barrister Will Noble of 9BR Chambers. After hearing the Prosecution’s evidence, Will made a submission of no case to answer in relation to all four charges.
We argued that the Prosecution’s evidence, which sought to prove that that our client was the same man in the complainant’s allegations, was inherently vague and weak. As a result, the jury could not be directed to properly convict our client. In no way could it be definitively proven that our client was the same man from the allegations.
Thanks to the strength of Will’s argument, the submission was accepted by the Court and our client was acquitted of all four charges. Our client was extremely grateful to Andy and Will for their support and expertise which led to such a fantastic outcome. Without our team’s expert defence, our client may have faced a criminal record and prison sentence.
Client Testimonial
I would highly recommend Lawtons Solicitors to anyone needing legal support and/or representation at whatever level. I went through an incredibly stressful and difficult time having been asked to attend a police station to answer questions relating to an accusation made against me. Andy, Chris, Amy and Will were so supportive, reassuring, knowledgeable and professional throughout and I really cannot thank them enough for everything they did for me during this ordeal. Thank you all, you are truly amazing.
Looking for a specialist indecent assault defence solicitor?
Being charged with indecent assault has the potential to have serious and life-long consequences on your future. You need a team of specialist criminal defence solicitors on your side to make sure that you receive the best possible outcome. With over 250 years combined experience, Lawtons will be there for you every step of the way and will ensure that you receive the highest level of care and attention. If you or a loved one are facing a criminal charge, get in touch with a member of our team today.
