Anesta Weekes KC secures murder acquittal after multi-handed trial

July 5, 2024

Anesta Weekes KC from Exchange Chambers has secured a murder acquittal for her client after a multi-handed trial at Manchester Crown Court.

In total, 6 defendants stood trial for murder and attempted murder following an incident at the canal basin, Manchester, in August 2023.

The central point of law in this case was joint enterprise. Although Anesta’s client was present during the incident, he took no part in it and did not possess or use a knife.

The case required meticulous examination and analysis of CCTV and telephone evidence together with the content of body worn video footage.

Ultimately, the jury accepted Anesta Weekes KC’s argument that there is no crime of being in the wrong place at the wrong time and joint enterprise could not be made out on a very careful analysis of the facts.  Accordingly, her client was acquitted of murder, attempted murder and grievous bodily harm with intent.

Anesta Weekes KC was instructed by Catherine Green of Tranters Solicitors.