Alleged Involvement in a Fatal Terrorist Attack – No Further Action

The Client

Our client was arrested as part of a wider counter-terrorism investigation following a major terrorist attack in Greater Manchester.

He was not alleged to have carried out the attack himself. His arrest arose from a personal association with an individual connected to the principal investigation.

The Allegations

Counter-terrorism officers were investigating whether anyone else had known of, assisted with or participated in the events under investigation.

Our client was arrested while officers examined his relationship with an individual connected to the principal investigation. Although there was no allegation that he had carried out the attack, the circumstances placed him under intense scrutiny and exposed him to the serious stigma associated with terrorism investigations.

The investigation was necessarily extensive. Individuals within the personal or social circle of a principal suspect can find themselves investigated because of an association, even where there is no direct evidence that they have committed an offence.

Our Strategy and Work

From the outset, we recognised the importance of separating association from evidence of criminal involvement.

We represented the client during the counter-terrorism investigation and police interview. We ensured that his account was properly prepared and presented and that the evidence said to connect him to the wider investigation was carefully examined.

The defence approach focused upon the precise nature of our client’s relationship with the individual connected to the principal investigation, what he knew and when he knew it. It was essential that investigators did not treat personal association as evidence that our client had assisted with or participated in terrorism.

We also ensured that the investigation addressed the absence of evidence demonstrating that our client had knowledge of, involvement in or responsibility for any terrorist activity.

Outcome

Following investigation, the police concluded that there was insufficient evidence to establish any involvement in terrorism and no further action was taken against our client.

He avoided prosecution and the potentially life-changing consequences of being charged with terrorism offences.

Comments from Elizabeth Syddall

“Following a major terrorist incident, counter-terrorism investigations are necessarily intensive. But association with a suspect is not the same as evidence of criminal involvement. Our role was to ensure that investigators focused on what our client actually knew and did, rather than allowing his personal connection to determine the outcome. The investigation was concluded with no further action.”

Elizabeth Syddall, Clifford Johnston & Co.

Specialist Terrorism Defence

Clifford Johnston & Co provides specialist representation for clients accused of serious terrorism offences, including preparing terrorist acts and allegations concerning extremist material or proscribed organisations.

We carefully examine the prosecution evidence and provide a robust defence at every stage, from police investigation through to Crown Court trial.

If you are facing allegations under terrorism legislation, contact our specialist Terrorism Defence Lawyers for expert advice and representation.