In another successful outcome for our private client team, the police have decided after reviewing pre-charge representations from Patrick O’Hanlon of BSQ to take no further action against our client PT.

PT was the proprietor of her own business as a dog behaviour specialist and a person of previous good character.

While out walking a group of dogs under her care, PT noticed an individual taking photographs of her vehicle. PT approached the individual to inquire about their actions and recorded the interaction on her phone, during which physical contact occurred.

Subsequently, PT was arrested under suspicion of assaulting an off-duty police officer and was detained for questioning. During the interview, PT asserted that the individual did not identify herself as a police officer and that any physical contact that followed was in self-defence on her part.

Following the interview, BSQ was retained privately to handle PT's case, taking over from the Legal Aid Duty Solicitor initially appointed at the police station. After analyzing the mobile phone footage captured by PT—retrieved only after her release on police bail—BSQ submitted comprehensive written representations to the police.

Our review of the footage revealed that the officer did not identify herself as such at any point and suggested that PT was, in fact, assaulted initially. The relevant mobile phone footage accompanied our submissions to the police.

The CPS have a continuing duty to review any decision to prosecute. In deciding to charge, the CPS are obliged under the Code for Crown Prosecutors to satisfy themselves that there is a realistic prospect of conviction. BSQ frequently challenge decisions to prosecute in pre and post charge interventions.

Following a review by an Evidential Review Officer, the police confirmed that no further action would be taken against PT.

If you require a criminal defence lawyer in London, or you need advice and assistance in relation to a criminal investigation, please contact our London offices.