Lesser charge accepted and Suspended sentence secured in Arson with intent to endanger life case

Our client faced the serious allegation of arson with intent to endanger life—a charge that carries a starting point of 8 years imprisonment.

It was alleged that our client drove another to a rural area, bought a can of petrol and gave it to the other male who lit a rag and put it through the letter box of a home. The damage to the home was minimal, but the act had the potential to cause great harm for the residents of the home and the area.

Our client transferred to our firm following a breakdown in the relationships with his last solicitors. He had submitted an unsigned defence statement which was inconsistent with the instructions provided to us, and the prosecution sought to adduce both of his accounts to attack his credibility. We sought to challenge this via voir dire and were able to submit evidence that showed our client had not in fact provided the account reflected in his previous defence statement to his solicitors. This evidence persuaded the prosecution to withdraw their application to adduce his previous defence statement.

Our client’s case had been ongoing since 2022, and his defence involved acceptance of simple arson: he accepted knowing a fire would be set, but not that a residence would be the target. We submitted a detailed defence statement and made representations, noting the significant delay, that this matter could be resolved by the Crown accepting a plea to simple arson.

Our representations were rejected initially, but though a second round of representations and careful negotiation, the Crown agreed to accept the proposed plea our client pleaded guilty to.

We submitted a basis of plea, with defence evidence supporting our account.

The basis was accepted, meaning there was no need for a Newton hearing to determine disputed facts and risk loss of any credit.

Ultimately, our client received sentence of 2 years imprisonment suspended two years.

This was an immense relief for our client, who had been living with the proceedings and the possibility of a lengthy custodial sentence hanging over him. He has been able to return to focusing on his family.

Phoebe Coleman was the solicitor of conduct of this case. Jessica Peck of 9 Bedford Row was instructed. She provided advice and assistance through out, deftly handling legal and putting the client ease.