This case involved examination of the law under s.139 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988 and s.25 of the Theft Act 1968. The defendant faced two counts of going equipped for theft and possession of a bladed article in a public place.
Through careful questioning by Keira, the client gave evidence that they had a reasonable excuse for being in possession of the lock knife and in respect of the going equipped for theft charge, that they believed the property in question was abandoned and therefore had no intention to steal.
Following three hours of deliberations the jury unanimously acquitted Keira's client of both counts.
Keira was instructed by Helen Dowd of Garratts Solicitors.
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