Not guilty verdicts for veterinary student who took knives into Leeds Crown Court – Eleanor Durdy defends.

The Defendant attended Leeds Combined Court after being called as a witness to a road traffic collision in February 2023. At the security check point she handed over a box cutter knife and a wooden lock knife was then found in a zipped pocket of her bag. As a final year veterinary student, the defendant raised the defence of forgetfulness coupled with reasonable excuse. She pleaded not guilty to two counts of possessing a bladed article in a public place.

After considering counsel’s advice, the Defendant elected for a trial by jury where the Crown later considered that the case was not in the public interest. The Court formally entered not guilty verdicts.

Eleanor specialises in Regulatory and Criminal Law and is regularly instructed by local authorities to advise on prosecution, and to conduct cases on their behalf, covering the full breadth of their work. She has an agricultural background which provides her with a unique insight in the field of agricultural and environmental matters.

Contact Eleanor’s Clerks