Our client was charged with 10 offences of supplying Class A drugs. Over the course of nine months, Solicitor Helen Ricks diligently investigated and compiled evidence showcasing the grooming and exploitation our client endured since the age of 14, This included medical documentation highlighting serious injuries inflicted by adults manipulating our clients circumstances. Despite compelling findings related to modern slavery and the insights of seasoned experts from the defence team, the Crown Prosecution Service chose to proceed with the case.
Preparing for trial required exceptional attention to detail due to the limited admissibility of expert testimony in Modern Slavery Act defences. The trial unfolded over five days, during which our vulnerable client bravely recounted their experiences of exploitation, guided by counsel’s support, before enduring a rigorous hour of cross-examination from the prosecution counsel. In a significant outcome, the jury of 12 unanimously determined that the Defendant qualified for protection under section 45 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015, ultimately returning 10 Not Guilty verdicts after nearly four hours of deliberation. A testament to Helen Rick’s’ incredible advocacy and compassion. A fantastic result.
