Kevin Metzger leading Verity Fowler-Rouault, instructed by Adil Najeeb of BMS Solicitors, Manchester, secured acquittals for their client after being instructed on day 1 of a 3-month trial. Kevin and Verity represented the first defendant in a 7 handed case alleging modern day slavery, forced labour, theft and money laundering. Their meticulous preparation, following late instruction, resulted in purposeful cross examination of two complainants, and two witnesses of first complaint which required the prosecution to urgently review their case. From the outset, Kevin and Verity relentlessly perused disclosure and applied continuing pressure on the Crown to comply with their obligations. The Crown were forced to consider whether there remained a realistic prospect of conviction. After 21 days, the Crown were obliged to offer no evidence against all defendants on all counts on the Indictment.
