Recent Case Successes at Harewood Law

At Harewood Law, we regularly represent clients facing serious and complex criminal allegations where the consequences of conviction can be life-changing. Below are several recent examples demonstrating how early preparation, detailed legal strategy, and robust courtroom advocacy achieved successful outcomes for our clients.

Kidnap Allegation – Not Guilty Verdict

Bradford Crown Court

Harewood Law represented a client charged alongside two others with a serious allegation of kidnap involving claims of assault and threats to kill the complainant. Our client strongly denied the allegations and the case proceeded to trial.

The prosecution relied heavily on technical evidence, including:

• Communications data analysis
• Cell site evidence
• Attribution of mobile phone numbers
• Timeline evidence using ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition)
• Analytical reports linking movement of vehicles and devices

The defence carefully examined the reliability of this evidence and raised important concerns regarding:

• Tainted identification evidence
• The credibility and reliability of the complainant
• The interpretation of communications data
• Alleged movements of mobile devices

Following a week-long trial, defence submissions were made at half-time challenging whether the prosecution evidence was capable of supporting a conviction. The judge accepted those arguments and directed the jury to return Not Guilty verdicts.

Harewood Law instructed Nick Cartmell of New Park Court Chambers in this case.

Serious Rape Allegation – Not Guilty Verdict

Bradford Crown Court

Harewood Law represented a client accused of a serious allegation of rape involving a child. The client strongly denied the offence and faced the possibility of a custodial sentence exceeding ten years if convicted.

The case lasted approximately two years and involved detailed preparation, careful handling of sensitive evidence, and continuous support for the client throughout what he described as one of the most difficult periods of his life.

A conviction would have had devastating consequences, including:

• Loss of employment
• Damage to reputation
• Impact on family relationships
• Risk of imprisonment
• Long-term registration requirements

Following trial, the jury returned a Not Guilty verdict, allowing the client to move forward with his life.

Harewood Law instructed Felicity Hemlin of New Park Court Chambers in this matter.

Pre-Charge Engagement Successes

Early legal advice can be critical in serious investigations. In several recent cases, Harewood Law secured decisions not to charge clients following detailed engagement with investigators.

Conspiracy to Commit VAT Fraud – £5 Million Investigation

HMRC Investigation

Harewood Law represented a director of a vehicle export company investigated as part of a complex multi-jurisdictional VAT fraud inquiry involving alleged fraudulent claims exceeding £5 million.

The investigation involved:

• Multiple UK and European companies
• Extensive document and digital evidence review
• Long voluntary interviews under caution

Following careful preparation and a detailed account addressing the allegations, the investigation concluded with no further action taken against our client.

Early instruction of solicitors and structured engagement with investigators played a key role in achieving this outcome.

Attempted Murder Investigation – Firearms Allegation Dropped

Our client was arrested alongside others following allegations of discharging a firearm in broad daylight during an alleged gang-related incident that left another individual seriously injured.

The investigation relied on:

• Phone evidence and call data
• Cell site analysis
• CCTV footage
• Evidence relating to vehicle and clothing disposal

After lengthy interviews and a period on police bail, the case against our client was discontinued.

Counter-Terrorism Investigation – No Charges Brought

Harewood Law represented a client investigated by counter-terrorism police in relation to allegations of promoting terrorism through the sharing of prohibited material within WhatsApp groups.

The case involved:

• Digital device downloads
• Message timeline analysis
• Group communication evidence
• Allegations linked to banned organisations

Careful analysis demonstrated that:

• The relevant material did not originate from our client’s device
• Messages were circulated while the client was abroad
• There was no evidence of active participation in the alleged activity

The investigation concluded with no charges brought against our client, while others involved were later prosecuted and convicted.

How Harewood Law Can Help

These cases demonstrate the importance of early legal advice, careful preparation, and experienced representation when facing serious criminal allegations.

Whether your case involves:

• Crown Court trial proceedings
• Serious allegations such as rape or kidnap
• Fraud investigations
• Firearms offences
• Counter-terrorism investigations
• HMRC enquiries
• Pre-charge engagement with police

Harewood Law provides clear, strategic, and proactive defence representation at every stage.

If you are under investigation or facing criminal proceedings, seeking specialist advice at the earliest opportunity can make a significant difference to the outcome of your case.