Tom Worsfold secured not guilty verdicts on all 8 counts faced by PB, after less than one hour of jury deliberations. The indictment contained some of the most serious sexual allegations, including penetrative activity, from nearly 30 years ago.
PB faced the prospect of spending most, if not all, of his remaining years in custody if convicted. In preparing for trial, Tom drafted an application under s.41 YJCEA, which was subsequently conceded by the Crown. Careful cross-examination of the complainant demonstrated clearly the possibility for confusion over the perpetrator of abuse. PB was delighted with the outcome, with the satisfactory conclusion of proceedings allowing him to focus on his health.
Tom was instructed by Peter Haney of Bell Lamb & Joynson, to whom credit is due for their preparation of the case for trial and assistance in facilitating PB’s participation via video link.