We represented our client in a high-profile case resulting in an attempted murder acquittal at Kingston Crown Court.
ZW stood trial on six serious charges arising from an alleged joint enterprise revenge attack in Battersea. The most serious charge was attempted murder. The case centred on a shooting said to be retribution for a violent kidnapping that occurred 14 months earlier.
The prosecution's case
The prosecution alleged that ZW played a key role in a premeditated plan to carry out the attack. They described him as a “wingman” to the principal offender who discharged a loaded firearm twice at the intended target at approximately 7:00pm on Sphere Walk.
Because of this alleged role, ZW was said to share intent with the principal offender and was therefore jointly liable.
Our defence strategy
We strategically utilised the prosecution’s own telephone evidence to demonstrate that ZW’s movements on the day were inconsistent with the alleged plan formed earlier among other defendants. We relied on detailed cell-site analysis and call data schedules. This showed no communication between ZW and the principal shooter in the months preceding the incident - pointing to a lack of association.
We also presented compelling evidence of ZW’s communications with individuals not linked to the incident. These findings, along with ZW's movements on the day, supported an alternative narrative to the prosecution’s case. This comprehensive approach raised significant doubt as to ZW’s involvement in any joint enterprise.
The verdict
After over 35 hours of deliberation, the jury acquitted ZW of attempted murder, a charge carrying a starting point of 30 years' imprisonment. He was, however, convicted of two lesser alternative offences.
This outcome marks a significant result in a highly complex, serious, and multi-defendant case.
ZW was represented by Ronnie Manek, in-house counsel at GT Stewart Solicitors & Advocates, who led Alex Rynn of 5SAH Chambers - both were instructed by Sophie Smith, Supervising Solicitor during an eight-week trial at Kingston Crown Court.
