Liam O’Brien Secures Acquittal of Autistic Defendant Accused of Serious Sexual Offences

Liam O’Brien recently secured the acquittal of a young defendant charged with three counts of rape and one count of controlling or coercive behaviour following a trial at the Crown Court.

The allegations related to events said to have occurred when the defendant was 15 years old.

The case involved significant and complex issues concerning the defendant’s ability to participate effectively in proceedings. The defendant, now aged 21, suffered from serious mental health difficulties including autism spectrum disorder. Following the discharge of a jury in an earlier trial, further expert evidence was obtained addressing fitness to participate, communication difficulties and the adjustments required to ensure the defendant could participate effectively in the proceedings.

The Court ultimately granted a range of special measures, including the appointment of an intermediary for the duration of the trial, an unusual course in the Crown Court.

Following trial, the jury returned unanimous verdicts of not guilty on all counts. Liam was grateful to be instructed by Amy Lamb of David Gray Solicitors in this particularly sensitive and demanding case.

To instruct Liam please contact the Criminal Clerks here.