Raphael Hardy and Tochi Ejimofo acted for two youths jointly accused of the robbery of another child, following a contested two day trial in the Youth Court.

Raphael Hardy and Tochi Ejimofo acted for two youths jointly accused of the robbery of another child, following a contested two day trial in the Youth Court.

The prosecution alleged a robbery involving the threat of a weapon. The case relied on the evidence of three eyewitnesses, including an on duty probation officer. Raphael Hardy’s client was found holding the complainant’s mobile phone when police arrived.

Through detailed cross examination and careful analysis of the Crown’s case, both counsel exposed material weaknesses in the eyewitness accounts and in the inferences said to arise from the footage. Raphael Hardy’s client also gave evidence with the assistance of an intermediary, requiring particular care in the handling of that evidence.

Both defendants were acquitted and retain their good character.

Raphael Hardy was instructed by Lauren Alphonse of AB Mackenzie Solicitors.

Tochi Ejimofo was instructed by Tai Ann Fadayomi of Banks & Partners Solicitors