Kidnapping and weapons charges dropped

In October 2023, our office instructed John Cook of Counsel appeared before the Southport District Court with respect to charges of Kidnapping and weapons offences carrying the mandatory minimum sentence of 18 months wholly served in a correctional facility.

Our office had cross-examined the complainant at committal, and the matter was committed to the District Court and listed for trial in early October 2023.

After submissions relating to the strength of the evidence, particularly in relation to evidence given by the complainant during the cross-examination at committal, the charge of kidnapping was discontinued the week before trial.

Consequently, the weapons offences were amended and no longer had the mandatory period of imprisonment.

Our client was sentenced for 2 weapons offences, stealing and unlawful use of a motor vehicle. He was convicted and not further punished.