Thomas Acworth’s client acquitted of multiple historical sexual offences
25th October 2024
3PB's crime barrister Thomas Acworth (pictured here) acted for JP, a 60-year-old man of previous good character, who was accused of serious sexual offences said to have taken place from the late 1970s to the mid 1980s. He was tried before HHJ Feest KC at Winchester Crown Court.
The indictment included 22 incidents of what would now be charged as rape of a child under 13. The litigation involved considerable arguments over disclosure, which were only resolved once Thomas drafted an abuse of process application. Several reluctant witnesses attended court for the defence as a result of witness summonses. Some only provided an account on the final day of the trial.
The jury acquitted JP of all counts after a retirement of just over an hour.
Thomas was instructed by Alex Moore of law firm Churchers.
If you wish to instruct Thomas, or see about his availability, please email his clerk Stuart Pringle on [email protected] or by calling him on 01962 868884.
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