Ann Tayo, instructed by Joan Mitchell of Cliftons Solicitors, secures Not Guilty verdicts for her client charged under the Social Security Administration Act 1992.
Following a 4 day trial at Kingston Crown Court, the jury unanimously acquits Ann’s client who is coping with ADHD, dyslexia, learning disability, deliberate self-harm, anxiety, depression and a history of mental illness. He was charged with dishonestly failing to notify a change of circumstances following an overpayment of £21,921.71 between 2012 and 2016 by the Department of Work and Pensions; during a period when he was claiming Employment and Support Allowance whilst working overtime stacking shelves at Tesco’s.
Upon the jury returning its verdict and being told by the Judge that he had been found Not Guilty, the client’s response was: “What does that mean?” His barrister Ann Tayo commented that:
“This reaction alone called into question the ethics and propriety of pursuing such prosecutions and the DWP should consider reviewing its practices.”