Quentin achieves acquittal for client on charges of possession of pepper spray, bladed articles and an offensive weapon.

Quentin was instructed by EMB Solicitors to conduct the defence of Mr PD whose car had been stopped by Police officers in a targeted operation. Police discovered a number of potentially illegal weapons during a search of the vehicle. PD therefore stood accused of number of offences:

- Possession of a bladed article x 2 contrary to section 139 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988- a dagger and a lock knife;

- Possession of an offensive weapon contrary to section 1 of the Prevention of Crime Act 1953- a 'police' style baton;

- Possession of a weapon designed or adapted for the discharge of a noxious liquid, contrary to section 5(1)(b) of the Firearms Act 1968- pepper spray

Mr PD had pleaded Not Guilty to all four charges and the matter was set down for trial. In preparing the trial Quentin had identified some fundamental weaknesses in the prosecution case and planned to use these to good effect. On the morning of the trial Quentin was able to speak to his opponent and ask how he was going to address these matters. The prosecutor took some time to seek instructions from the Crown Prosecution Service and, following a review, the prosecution offered no evidence against Quentin's client in respect of the pepper spray and the lock knife, as a result not guilty verdicts were entered in respect of these counts.

This left a count of possession of an offensive weapon and a bladed article, these matters proceeded to trial. The defences in respect of both were legally and factually complicated as the law is by no means straightforward, an analysis of the law in respect of these matters can be seen in a separate informative blog posts here and here.

Quentin cross examined two police officers with devastating effect, as well as ensuring that his client gave very good evidence about the circumstances surrounding and reasons for the possession of the dagger and baton. At the close of the case Quentin made a series of submissions linking the law to the factual matrix of the case to demonstrate his client's innocence. 

The Court agreed with Quentin's submissions, Quentin's client was acquitted of the two remaining counts and Not Guilty verdicts were recorded. Quentin was able to successfully apply for a defendant's costs order in favour of his client. 

If you find yourself accused of possession of weapons you may wish to instruct a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer to give you the best chance of success. Quentin Hunt is a specialist criminal Barrister who has dealt with cases of this sort for over two decades. Quentin accepts instructions in such cases both through solicitors and direct from members of the public. You may contact Quentin for a free, no obligation conversation about how he can assist with any criminal case.