We represented a client, D, who was unanimously acquitted by a jury at Woolwich Crown Court of multiple allegations of rape and assault by penetration following a five-day trial.

Background

The prosecution case alleged that D had sexually assaulted and raped his then wife on a number of occasions, including while she was asleep. The complainant alleged the offences took place over several years throughout their relationship and alleged he was controlling of her friendships and finances.

On the day the complainant left the marital home, she took their children and left D a note which was exhibited as evidence at trial. The crown relied upon evidence from the complainant, supporting witnesses, and a substantial volume of text message exchanges between the parties.

Our Involvement

D denied all allegations. His case was that the complainant was fabricating the allegations to hide the fact she had been engaging in an affair and to facilitate her obtaining housing following her leaving the marital home and to strengthen her application for custody of the children.

Through careful preparation and detailed investigation, the defence uncovered evidence that the complainant was in fact having an affair. This included video footage showing her kissing another man on the day she left the family home. This evidence formed an important part of the defence case and was put to the witnesses at trail.

Outcome

After hearing all of the evidence, the jury returned not guilty verdicts on all counts. D leaves court with his good character and employment intact and can continue to maintain his relationship with his young children.

D was represented by Kevin Williams, supervised by Will Russell and by defence counsel Ben Hargreaves of Mountford Chambers at trial.