Summary
We represented two clients who were facing charges relating to indecent images of children. After a three-year investigation, both clients were acquitted of all charges thanks to our team’s expertise and robust legal defence.
Details of the Case
The Police entered our client’s home and seized several devices which were sent off for analysis. Over a year later, they were able to give their account to the Police when interviewed under caution on a voluntary basis. Neither of our clients had the benefit of our expert legal advice at this early stage when representations could have been made regarding the state of the investigation.
We were instructed to take on our clients’ case when the matter went to court, where almost another year had passed before the case was heard. Both clients completely denied the charges against them.
Our Defence
Our clients were both extremely distressed by the allegations against them. Indecent images charges are extremely serious under UK law, where the maximum potential sentence is up to 10 years in prison. In preparing the case and gathering evidence, our team made robust requests for further evidence and information from the Prosecution.
After instructing several experts, we were able to gauge a preliminary view that some of the key evidence that the Prosecution relied on could have been downloaded accidentally, and some of it may in fact not have been illegal at all.
After making these representations to the Prosecution, we were able to persuade them to ensure that the investigation was reconsidered, even after all this time.
Outcome
The Prosecution did finally concede that the case shouldn’t continue. It was agreed that the investigation was a mistake from start to finish. The matter should have been investigated properly from the outset and thankfully, we were able to expose the weaknesses and ensure that the right result was achieved.
This case illustrates the importance of having a defence team on your side who are experienced in defending criminal charges and can offer expert services tailored to the needs of the case. If you’re facing investigation or prosecution for any type of sexual offence or indecent images charges, contact our specialist team today.
