Gregory and Thomas secure acquittal in the UK’s largest multi-agency Trading Standards prosecution
[intro]James Gregory and Dan Thomas saw their client John Davies acquitted of 21 counts, including conspiracy to defraud, fraud and alleged breaches of the Consumer Protection regulations, after a 3-month trial at Harrow Crown Court. Mr. Davies was the former Financial Director of nationwide company, SAS Fire & Security Systems Ltd.[/intro]
Described by the Crown as the largest multi-agency Trading Standards prosecution ever litigated, the case against Mr. Davies reduced considerably as a result of legal submissions made at various key stages during the course of the trial.
Following the prosecution case, the Judge agreed that there was no case to answer on the conspiracy to defraud charge. The minor fraud matters were also dropped following the defence case, leaving Mr. Davies to face regulatory breaches. Three other company directors faced regulatory breaches and conspiracy to defraud.
Mr. Davies was ultimately acquitted by the jury of all remaining counts, whilst the three other company directors were found guilty of regulatory breaches.
Mr. Gregory and Mr. Thomas were instructed by fraud and regulatory specialist, Rachel Adamson of Stephensons Solicitors.
James Gregory has been recognised for his expertise in commercial fraud trials for many years. This successful result follows up his widely publicized victory in the Kitchens Direct/Vance Miller litigation.
Dan Thomas is currently instructed in a number of large-scale financial crime matters including defending a prominent Manchester solicitor charged with money laundering, successfully prosecuting 13 defendants in Operation Bespoke, a 4-month trial at Preston Crown Court and Operation Enigma, a conspiracy to launder £200million through a money transfer business.
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