Case dropped against military veteran

Chaynee Hodgetts, instructed by Ashley Smith of Ashley Smith Solicitors, secured Not Guilty verdicts, with the Prosecution offering no evidence against a military veteran charged with serious allegations, including controlling or coercive behaviour, stalking involving serious alarm or distress, theft (x 2); criminal damage, and intimidation.

After considering Ms Hodgetts’ written application to dismiss all charges, accompanied by Defence solicitors’ written representations, the Prosecution offered no evidence on all charges on this six count indictment – before the application to dismiss was even heard in court.

Furthermore, the Prosecution did not pursue any application for a Restraining Order on acquittal (so none was imposed) – and a Defence Costs Order was granted. The Complainant was in full support of this outcome to the case.

This case involved representing a military veteran living with PTSD and mental health matters, who was being assisted by the Royal British Legion and other support services.