Anthony Horsfall Secures 11.5 Month Sentence In Arson to Endanger Life Case

Anthony Horsfall, secured a sentence of 11.5 months for a client who faced charges of arson with intent to endanger life, possession of an offensive weapon and criminal damage.

The lead arson offence concerned the defendant starting multiple fires inside a flat building with the use of accelerant resulting in considerable damage being caused.

The defendant had a number of complex mental health issues and required extensive treatment before being found fit to plead.

Anthony made submissions early on in proceedings regarding the issue of intent, and the matter resolved with guilty pleas to the lesser offence of reckless arson alongside pleas to the other offences.

The defence obtained several psychiatric reports, along with a wealth of other mitigation material, which Anthony relied on to advance forceful submissions in favour of a significantly reduced sentence.

The practical impact of the sentence was that the defendant was time-served. Anthony was instructed by Bethany Wilson from Forbes Solicitors in respect of the arson and Ian Robinson of Russell & Russell Solicitors in relation to the weapon and damage offences.

For more information, or to instruct Anthony Horsfall, please contact Criminal Clerk, Abigail Lockett.