Helen Douglass-Dixon, instructed by the CPS East of England RASSO Unit, prosecuted an eight-day trial at Peterborough Crown Court, securing convictions on two counts of sexual activity with a child under 16.
The two complainants were both aged 15 at the time of the offending. One was a member of the defendant’s family, while the other was a young person whom he coached through a youth sports team.
The prosecution case involved six civilian witnesses and one police officer. Due to their ages and vulnerability, the two complainants gave their evidence in chief by way of pre-recorded interviews and were cross-examined through pre-recorded questioning. Helen conducted the examination in chief of the remaining prosecution witnesses during the trial.
The case required detailed preparation and careful consideration of a substantial body of evidence. It also involved sensitive issues arising from the defendant’s relationships with the two young complainants, requiring a measured approach to the presentation of the prosecution case and the handling of vulnerable witnesses.
Following the eight-day trial, the defendant was convicted of both counts and remanded in custody pending sentence.
This case demonstrates Helen’s experience in prosecuting serious sexual offences and handling cases involving children and vulnerable witnesses, combining effective trial advocacy with the sensitivity required in the presentation of evidence of this nature.
Helen is regularly instructed in serious criminal matters and accepts instructions to both prosecute and defend.
Helen’s full profile: Helen Douglass-Dixon – Great James Street Chambers
To instruct Helen, please contact the clerking team at clerks@greatjames.co.uk or on 0207 440 4949.