Man acquitted of coercive control and stalking following cross examination of first witness

NP was charged on a three-count indictment. The third count, harassment with a fear of violence, was the subject of a successful application to dismiss prior to the trial starting. 

It had been alleged that while in a relationship with the complainant, he had subjected her to sustained coercive and controlling behaviour, including controlling her finances, clothes, who she could associate with and isolating her from friends and family. Following the relationship, he was alleged to have persistently contacted and sent her unwanted and inappropriate gifts as well as contacting her friends and associates in relation to her.

On day five of the trial, following lengthy cross examination of the complainant in which irredeemable flaws in the prosecution’s case were exposed - and ahead of the four remaining witnesses being called - the prosecution formallyoffered no further evidence, and the jury were directed to return verdicts of not guilty. 

Violet was instructed by Ellie Bird of HJA Solicitors.