John Hurlock of 2 Bedford Row, instructed by Daniel Berman of Daniel Berman Solicitors, represented N in a substantial prosecution concerning the large-scale supply of Class A and Class B drugs.
The prosecution case
The prosecution alleged that N arranged for drugs to be transported from Aberdeen to West Bromwich, where a consignment was intercepted by police on 18 May 2013. The Crown’s case was that he was responsible for importing the drugs and acted as the link between UK conspirators and a supply network in Holland, with connections to London and Essex. It relied on telephone evidence, emails and material recovered from a seized computer.
The probe evidence
Police had obtained extensive covert listening-device recordings from a co-defendant’s premises. The prosecution did not rely on them and had not transcribed them. John Hurlock recognised their potential significance, and the defence undertook a painstaking review of the audio.
The recordings revealed other conspirators’ own contacts with Holland. This undermined the Crown’s claim that N was the link between the international and domestic ends of the conspiracy. In cross-examination, the officer in the case conceded that nothing in the probe evidence connected N to either the Essex or the Holland end.
Outcome
That concession cast substantial doubt on the prosecution’s reading of the telephone and computer evidence. Following a retrial, N was acquitted.
The case shows the value of scrutinising all investigative material, including evidence the prosecution chooses not to rely on.
“I was the solicitor instructing John Hurlock in R v N. I had worked with John previously and trusted him to be thorough, client-friendly and insightful in such a serious matter. His performance both in and out of the Court was first class, in very demanding circumstances. He was accessible at all times, at unusual hours too. The eventual acquittal was testament to John’s industry and forensic legal mind. He was completely committed to the case for its entire duration and formed strong professional relationships with all parties concerned, including garnering the respect of The Judge. His work ethic, tenacity and ability were impressive throughout, and I was grateful to have him as Counsel in this matter.”