The thug got away with it

[nurseryt-31]

Further to my previous q http://www.theanswerbank.co.uk/Law/Question611 552.html the trial started Monday, 8 prosecution witnesses including 2 police officers, a doctor and a forensic expert (defendant called 2 witnesses, his nephew and nephew-in-law) we didn't stay until the end because his family were being pretty unpleasant, were quietly confident of justice being done until yesterday afternoon, when I phoned court for an update to be told that he was found 'not guilty' on both counts (gbh with intent s18 and gbh s20) obviously we are stunned and disappointed but more than that we want to know WHY? and the cps woman hasn't returned my calls - what can we do to find out? Any advice appreciated x

[paraffin]

There is usually a CCLO (Crown Court Liaison Officer), usually either Police Officers or someone employed by the Police, who acts as a sort of go-between for the prosecution "side". Didn't you have anyone like that?

If so, they would be your first port of call. Otherwise, if the CPS are "lying low", then do you know who the OIC (Officer in the Case) was? S/he would presumably have been at the trial and may be able to tell you what happened.

Good luck.

[Barmaid]

I really do sympathise with you. However, it is unlikely that you will ever know why - unless something really obvious went wrong. The reason for this is that juries, unlike magistrates, do not give reasons. Indeed they are prevented from doing so.

[gossipgirl]

thats awful that he got away with it, infact its sick, but thats how the ''Justice system '' is nowadays. The ones who do the crimes seem to get away with everything and laugh at us in the process.

[cassa333]

If you know the name of the policeman that was dealing with it ask them. They are often as flumuxed as the rest of us at this sort of thing.

[nurseryt-31]

Thanks guys, I didn't meet any liaison officer, and the police officer who was the one in charge of the case was also giving evidence for the prosecution - he seemed quite nervous himself on Tuesdaty and told my partner he was expecting a grilling on how procedures were followed - his phone has been on answer - phone so far, will have to try it again. British justice eh? :-(