Our private client team was initially contacted by an individual who was questioned for an allegation of sexual assault. He was previously represented by a duty solicitor arranged by the police but needed Lawton’s expertise to handle the situation further.
Released under investigation, he received a summons to attend the City of Westminster Magistrates Court for his first appearance. A man of good character, a father and a grandfather, our client was understandably horrified at the prospect of having to attend court for such an allegation. It was at this stage that we were contacted.
From our London-based private client team, Andy Hobdell obtained the prosecution statements and had the opportunity to take full instructions ahead of the first court appearance. After much discussion, it was agreed that this was a case best served by way of trial in the Crown Court.
It was clear from the outset that the defendant had done nothing wrong and that the police investigating this case had not been thorough or diligent in their enquiries.
Despite very little being provided by the police investigating the allegation, we made our enquiries and were able to show a clear disregard for key witnesses by the police. The police had identified several witnesses as being non-supportive. Defence enquiries were also able to prove that this was not the case.
Specialist defence counsel was instructed by us on behalf of our client, and it was possible to show clear gaps within the police investigation. The officers were then cross-examined and accepted that they had failed to make those enquiries of the witness who didn’t assist the prosecution case and supported the account as put forward by the defendant.
After a three-day trial, the defendant was found not guilty.
Have you or your loved one been accused of a similar crime? Contact us today, and let us handle the rest.
