A Dictionary of Law (Oxford Paperback Reference) (Paperback)
Any involvement in law requires a good law dictionary so a full understanding can be gained.
Book Description
This best-selling dictionary is a comprehensive source of clear, jargon-free legal information. It focuses primarily on English law and provides a one-stop source of information for any of the many countries that base their legal system on English law. Over 4,300 entries define and explain the major terms, concepts, processes, and organization of the legal system.
Now greatly improved and expanded for the 6th edition, the dictionary boasts a wealth of new features including recommended weblinks, feature entries on key topics, and greatly expanded coverage of European and International law, as well as key jurisprudence (legal theory) terms. It also includes a brand-new Writing and citation section that specifically addresses problems and established conventions for writing legal essays and reports.
Described by leading university lecturers as ' ... the best law dictionary at present ...' and ' ... excellent for non law students as well as law undergraduates ... ', this classic dictionary is a handy and invaluable source of legal reference for professionals, students, and anyone else needing succinct clarification of legal terms.
Sunday, 23 September 2007
Law for the day
"Even when laws have been written down, they ought not always to remain unaltered." Aristotle
Saturday, 22 September 2007
Angelina Jolie What was she thinking
How is this setting an example to youths and the public who look up to people like this?
Sept 17, 2007:
"I've done coke, heroin, ecstasy, LSD, everything. But the one that had the worst effect for me was pot." -- Angelina Jolie, who admitted to once taking LSD before entering Disneyland.
Sept 17, 2007:
"I've done coke, heroin, ecstasy, LSD, everything. But the one that had the worst effect for me was pot." -- Angelina Jolie, who admitted to once taking LSD before entering Disneyland.
All students please look! David Irving to speak at a university near you? mportant notice!!!!!
Any law student reading this blog please take note of the following
David Irving to speak at a university near you?
David Irving is to speak in a university debate on 23 November on "free speech". However the Holocaust denial writer, who was recently barred permanently from entering Austria, was careful not to reveal which student union had been so misguided as to ask him.
Students and university staff are asked to let us know about any debates booked for 23 November, or thereabouts, that might be the one hosting Irving so that we can take steps to prevent this blatant misuse of academic freedom to promote his Nazi agenda.
Irving was released from an Austrian prison last December after serving part of a three-year term for denying the Holocaust. Since then he has been active promoting Holocaust denial in Hungary, where he addressed a far-right rally on 15 March 2007. He fared less well in Poland where he was expelled from the 52nd Warsaw International Book Fair because his writings contravened Polish law.
The reason for Irving's caution over his debating engagement was clear from his correspondence, reproduced on his website, with Andrew Mackenzie, president of the European Society at the University of St Andrews. Mackenzie had asked Irving to suggest dates on which he could come and speak about "the holocaust and Adolf Hitler", but rapidly withdrew the invitation after the university "raised concerns" about "security and use of their property".
Later this week Irving is due to speak at two public meetings - Coventry on 21 September and the following evening in Windsor, where moved into a large house earlier this month. His subject will be "who dug the grave of the British Empire - Hitler or Churchill". Strict security is to be observed with "rights of admission strictly reserved". Those wishing to attend are warned to bring "satisfactory ID".
This is certainly a step up for Irving who has recently been seen hawking his books from a tent in a field at a Second World War re-enactment event in Kent, where middle-aged men got the opportunity to dress up as SS members. The event attracted all shades of extremist opinion including a number of members of Belgian Blood and Honour.
Please take the time to visit this website
http://www.stopthebnp.org.uk/
Most wanted
Scotland Yard's Wanted
Ref: Vanguard1
Ref: Vanguard1
ARMED ROBBERY
North London, Hertfordshire and Thames Valley
This suspect is wanted in connection with a series of armed robberies in betting shops including one in Harrow on 29/05/06 at 10:22 am. The suspect used a handgun which he pointed at staff through the counter security screen.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the dedicated
"Scotland Yard's Wanted" hotline number 020 7233 4128.
Alternatively information can be provided anonymously to
Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
____________________________
Noel Francis CUNNINGHAM
ARMED ROBBERY
Noel Francis CUNNINGHAM, born 1961, is being sought by the Flying Squad.
CUNNINGHAM escaped from a prison transport van on Tuesday 10 June 2003.
They were being taken from Brixton Prison to the Inner London Crown Court where they were due to face charges in connection with the theft of £1.25million from a security van.
Their prison van was ambushed by two armed men, who shot one prison guard and pistol whipped another.
information from Scotland Yard's Wanted Met Police follow this link to see more
note for all students
detailed Student Crime Prevention Package
21-Sep-07
Prize draws, 999TV, and a Best Bar None initiative are among the strategies to keep students safe in West Yorkshire...
Police in West Yorkshire are gearing up to make sure thousands of new students to the county get a crime-free welcome.
They will be joining staff from universities and colleges around West Yorkshire to launch a major crime crackdown and awareness campaign aimed at the thousands of fresher students coming to study in the county.
Special joint operations will be launched in the areas around the universities, colleges and student accommodation as well as in areas frequented by students.
Students will be able to log in to the latest crime prevention tips on the Force’s website www.westyorkshire.police.uk where there is also access to 999TV featuring a short film on crime prevention advice.
There is also the opportunity to enter a prize draw to win £200 shopping vouchers, plus a special category for students to send in their best 20 second video clip via a mobile of a safety tip for use on the website.
The student site contains advice on property marking, how to look after your mobile phone and other electronic equipment and simple tips on personal safety. It also gives a guide to who to contact if you need more help or advice on crime prevention.
Students can also take advantage of West Yorkshire Police’s Best Bar None initiative, an award scheme which accredits safety and security procedures in bars, pubs and clubs.
The Force's Crime Reduction Officer, Detective Inspector Duncan Macnay, said: "For many students this will be there first period away from home and while we want them to have a great time and enjoy their studies, we want to ensure that they stay safe.”
During Freshers’ week, students will be able to attend scores of events, organised to ensure they stay safe and secure in the county’s towns and cities.
In Kirklees police will be at the freshers’ week activities and student safety meetings to promote crime prevention. They will also aim to set up Neighbourhood Watch schemes in Halls of Residence to pass on crime information to students.
In Leeds there will be high profile patrols by police and university security staff across the city around the universities and colleges as well as near student accommodation and pubs and clubs.
There will also be patrols by mounted officers on the A660 Otley Road where police aim to create a safe corridor for students travelling between their accommodation, their universities and the many events held in the area for fresher students in the first week.
Police in Leeds will also launch the ‘Knowledge’ campaign offering advice on how students can keep themselves and their property safe and avoid becoming a victim of crime.
Bradford Police will continue with their ‘Think Smart, Be Safe’ project which involves a series of safety and security presentations for all new students. Each new student will receive a drawstring sports bag with a Think Smart Be Safe wall planner incorporating seasonal safety messages and information, a pen, ruler and other useful information. There will also be a stand at the freshers’ fair staffed by the newly-appointed NPT officer for the area with local PCSOs who work in the area.
21-Sep-07
Prize draws, 999TV, and a Best Bar None initiative are among the strategies to keep students safe in West Yorkshire...
Police in West Yorkshire are gearing up to make sure thousands of new students to the county get a crime-free welcome.
They will be joining staff from universities and colleges around West Yorkshire to launch a major crime crackdown and awareness campaign aimed at the thousands of fresher students coming to study in the county.
Special joint operations will be launched in the areas around the universities, colleges and student accommodation as well as in areas frequented by students.
Students will be able to log in to the latest crime prevention tips on the Force’s website www.westyorkshire.police.uk where there is also access to 999TV featuring a short film on crime prevention advice.
There is also the opportunity to enter a prize draw to win £200 shopping vouchers, plus a special category for students to send in their best 20 second video clip via a mobile of a safety tip for use on the website.
The student site contains advice on property marking, how to look after your mobile phone and other electronic equipment and simple tips on personal safety. It also gives a guide to who to contact if you need more help or advice on crime prevention.
Students can also take advantage of West Yorkshire Police’s Best Bar None initiative, an award scheme which accredits safety and security procedures in bars, pubs and clubs.
The Force's Crime Reduction Officer, Detective Inspector Duncan Macnay, said: "For many students this will be there first period away from home and while we want them to have a great time and enjoy their studies, we want to ensure that they stay safe.”
During Freshers’ week, students will be able to attend scores of events, organised to ensure they stay safe and secure in the county’s towns and cities.
In Kirklees police will be at the freshers’ week activities and student safety meetings to promote crime prevention. They will also aim to set up Neighbourhood Watch schemes in Halls of Residence to pass on crime information to students.
In Leeds there will be high profile patrols by police and university security staff across the city around the universities and colleges as well as near student accommodation and pubs and clubs.
There will also be patrols by mounted officers on the A660 Otley Road where police aim to create a safe corridor for students travelling between their accommodation, their universities and the many events held in the area for fresher students in the first week.
Police in Leeds will also launch the ‘Knowledge’ campaign offering advice on how students can keep themselves and their property safe and avoid becoming a victim of crime.
Bradford Police will continue with their ‘Think Smart, Be Safe’ project which involves a series of safety and security presentations for all new students. Each new student will receive a drawstring sports bag with a Think Smart Be Safe wall planner incorporating seasonal safety messages and information, a pen, ruler and other useful information. There will also be a stand at the freshers’ fair staffed by the newly-appointed NPT officer for the area with local PCSOs who work in the area.
Reform Indefinite Sentencing
'Reform Indefinite Sentencing'
21-Sep-07
Report says that 'Indeterminate Sentences for Public Protection' are 'ill-conceived and fundamentally flawed'...
Indefinite sentences - blamed for clogging up jails in England and Wales - should be imposed only in exceptional cases, a prison reform group has said.
The Howard League for Penal Reform published a report on the indeterminate sentence for public protection (IPP) introduced in 2005 for offenders convicted of a wide range of serious crimes. The organisation said IPPs are "ill-conceived and fundamentally flawed".
Justice Secretary Jack Straw is already reviewing the way the sentence is operating after a series of successful challenges by inmates in the High Court.
Howard League director Frances Crook said: "The IPP is a disastrous example of the Government failing to plan for the consequences of an ill-thought out policy.
"With official estimates that the number of IPPs will reach 25,000 by 2012 - almost a third of the current prison population - this sentence threatens to overwhelm a prison system that is already on its knees.
"If the Government's attempts to appeal the recent High Court judgments fail, then hundreds of prisoners classified as 'dangerous' will be released from custody. Either way, the public is not being well served."
She added: "The Howard League opposes the IPP as a matter of principle. It is wrong to imprison a person for what they might do rather than what they have actually done."
Senior judges ruled IPPs are unlawful if prisoners are not provided with the behaviour management courses and assessments they need to help demonstrate to the Parole Board that they can be released.
Being unable to access such courses has led to many prisoners being kept behind bars for longer than the minimum period set out by the court, adding to the jail overcrowding crisis.
21-Sep-07
Report says that 'Indeterminate Sentences for Public Protection' are 'ill-conceived and fundamentally flawed'...
Indefinite sentences - blamed for clogging up jails in England and Wales - should be imposed only in exceptional cases, a prison reform group has said.
The Howard League for Penal Reform published a report on the indeterminate sentence for public protection (IPP) introduced in 2005 for offenders convicted of a wide range of serious crimes. The organisation said IPPs are "ill-conceived and fundamentally flawed".
Justice Secretary Jack Straw is already reviewing the way the sentence is operating after a series of successful challenges by inmates in the High Court.
Howard League director Frances Crook said: "The IPP is a disastrous example of the Government failing to plan for the consequences of an ill-thought out policy.
"With official estimates that the number of IPPs will reach 25,000 by 2012 - almost a third of the current prison population - this sentence threatens to overwhelm a prison system that is already on its knees.
"If the Government's attempts to appeal the recent High Court judgments fail, then hundreds of prisoners classified as 'dangerous' will be released from custody. Either way, the public is not being well served."
She added: "The Howard League opposes the IPP as a matter of principle. It is wrong to imprison a person for what they might do rather than what they have actually done."
Senior judges ruled IPPs are unlawful if prisoners are not provided with the behaviour management courses and assessments they need to help demonstrate to the Parole Board that they can be released.
Being unable to access such courses has led to many prisoners being kept behind bars for longer than the minimum period set out by the court, adding to the jail overcrowding crisis.
Ten convicted of being involved in 'sadistic and pitiless' dog fight
Ten convicted of being involved in 'sadistic and pitiless' dog fight
· Seven told they could face jail, as onlookers are fined
· Vets unable to save two injured pit bull terriers
Sam Jones
Friday September 21, 2007
The Guardian
Ten men were yesterday convicted of involvement in a "sadistic" dog fight described by the RSPCA as one of the largest and most savage bouts it had ever come across.
District Judge Kal Qureshi found five men guilty of attending the fight and five others guilty of the same offence and more serious charges, including causing animals to fight, at the end of a three-week trial at Birmingham magistrates court.
He described the dog fight, which took place in February last year at the back of a kitchen interiors shop in the Alum Rock area of Birmingham, as "a sadistic event ... [that] involved inflicting unimaginable pain without any pity for the animals". The crowd at the fight - 26 spectators in all - was so big that the arresting officers had to flag down a double-decker bus to transport the men to the police station.
Article continues
The judge issued fines ranging between £750 and £1,400 to the five men found guilty of attending the fight. The other five defendants were remanded on bail for sentence in October, along with two other men who admitted several offences prior to the trial.
Ummar Ahmed, 26, of Birmingham, Zahir Ahmed, 31, of Perry Barr, Barkat Hussain, 42, and Waqqas Mughal, 18, both of Smethwick, Zahoor Hussain, 40, and Intikab Hussain, 31, both of Ward End, and Sohail Hussain, 27, of Saltley, were told they could be jailed. Fourteen other men were fined between £500 and £1,300 early this month after pleading guilty to attending the fight.
Despite its elaborate organisation, the bout was discovered by accident. Police were alerted after a member of the public, who was puzzled by the number of people going into the shop and the shouts and squeals coming out of it, called Crimestoppers.
PC Paul Foster, the first officer on the scene, told the court of hearing yelping and howling followed by waves of cheering from inside. The noises persuaded him to call for back up.
When he and 30 other officers smashed their way into the room they found a small carpeted arena ringed by kitchen cabinets and encircled by cameras set up to record the action. Close by was veterinary equipment, a treadmill and sponges to soak up the blood.
They also found two dogs. One of the animals, a black pit bull terrier named Elvis, staggered weakly towards the police as they approached. The other, a badly mauled brindle pit bull called Bullet, was discovered in a cupboard. Both were treated by RSPCA vets, but their injuries proved too severe. Bullet died within hours while Elvis had to be destroyed two days later.
PC Foster described the sight of the wounded animals as perhaps one of the most distressing things he had seen in his job. Worse, however, was to come when videos of the fight were examined. The films showed the bout had lasted almost two hours, during which time the dogs tore at each other until one had lost most of the fur on its face.
"The video was horrific," one RSPCA officer told the Guardian. "It was as graphic and gory as you would expect a dog fight to be. Anyone with any sympathy or empathy for animals would be sickened." He said it was probably the longest documented dog fight, adding that it was a sad measure of the dogs' strength that they had sustained such a ferocious fight for an hour and three quarters.
Eight weeks after the discovery of the Alum Rock Road ring, the RSPCA's undercover Special Operations Unit (SOU) launched Operation Lace, a series of raids on dogfighters in and around Birmingham. The operation led to the seizure of 51 dogs - including 45 pitbulls - and the recovery of dog fighting videos from the US and Pakistan, as well as veterinary kits, treadmills and breaking sticks, which are used to prise apart the jaws of a dog when they become locked on an opponent. Fourteen people were charged with various offences related to dog fighting and possessing banned dogs.
The RSPCA says the resurgence of dog fighting is a "nationwide problem" involving several hundred people. The society has also noted the emergence of a new kind of dog fighting.
"The old-style dog fighters of the 1970s and 1980s would train their dogs as you would a prizefighter, using treadmills and hanging tyres to prepare them for a fight," said Chief Inspector Mike Butcher of the SOU. "The fights would be in a regulation-sized pit with fixed rules and a referee, and would be stopped when one of the dogs had clearly won ... betting didn't really play a major part in these fights, it was more about the prestige."
Today, the fights have become more commercial and even bloodier, with young men and their tough-looking dogs meeting each other in parks and "rolling" their animals. "The emphasis [now] appears to be more on betting and fighting the dogs to the death," said Mr Butcher.
Although the RSPCA has prosecuted more than 150 people for dog fighting related offences since 2000, it is concerned about the rise and rise of a "sport" that was banned 172 years ago.
"Whichever way it's done, dog fighting is an abhorrent, cruel activity which is barbaric and sickening," said Mr Butcher.
Men hunted after school car blast
Detectives are continuing to hunt two men seen near a school in Liverpool where a home-made explosive went off inside a teacher's car.
For the full story from the BBC Click here
For the full story from the BBC Click here
Famous Quotes in the Law
"Each time a man stands up for an ideal,
or acts to improve the lot of others,
or strikes out against injustice,
he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope."
- Robert F. Kennedy (1925-1968, American Attorney General, Senator)
Friday, 21 September 2007
Law Quotes
If there were no bad people, there would be no good lawyers.
Charles Dickens (1812-1870) British novelist.
Only a matter of days to go
Well only a few days now until I start cannot wait now to start my new carer path. Uni here we come!!!
Cant help thinking what the other people on my course are going to think given that I am older than them. Hoping all is going to work out well, given that they have all been on freshers week this week, I haven't because I am not living in halls or away from home I will not know anyone else there so could be interesting on the first day. Look forward to keeping you up to date with everything.
Cant help thinking what the other people on my course are going to think given that I am older than them. Hoping all is going to work out well, given that they have all been on freshers week this week, I haven't because I am not living in halls or away from home I will not know anyone else there so could be interesting on the first day. Look forward to keeping you up to date with everything.
Law in the news 20/09/2007
Today a teacher faces jail after being convicted of using his computer to access child pornography.
Uk police where informed by Italian agents of his activites the the denfended denied all knowledge of how some 243 images and eight video clips had ended up onto his computer.
He was convited of posessing the images {one level four image}.
for the full story visit this link BBC NEWS
Looking at this case there are many different offences that could be taken into count when charging for this offence.
Thanks to the government undertaking a major reform into the offences relating to sexual offence and the passing of the SEXUAL OFFENCES ACT 2003. This act introduced new offences and make the exising offences easyer to understand. The old offences relating to sexual offences was clearly out of date and the government made a good job relating to this.
The new act has made it easyer to charge for offences and most importantly serious offences such as rape. The best thing about this new act, it really portects children! Crimes against children I feel like many others are the worst, and this act is great step forward in proecteting them by bringing in new offences. However so much more needs to be done relating to this subject. But this act is a step in the right direction and the government deserve a pat on the back.
Uk police where informed by Italian agents of his activites the the denfended denied all knowledge of how some 243 images and eight video clips had ended up onto his computer.
He was convited of posessing the images {one level four image}.
for the full story visit this link BBC NEWS
Looking at this case there are many different offences that could be taken into count when charging for this offence.
Thanks to the government undertaking a major reform into the offences relating to sexual offence and the passing of the SEXUAL OFFENCES ACT 2003. This act introduced new offences and make the exising offences easyer to understand. The old offences relating to sexual offences was clearly out of date and the government made a good job relating to this.
The new act has made it easyer to charge for offences and most importantly serious offences such as rape. The best thing about this new act, it really portects children! Crimes against children I feel like many others are the worst, and this act is great step forward in proecteting them by bringing in new offences. However so much more needs to be done relating to this subject. But this act is a step in the right direction and the government deserve a pat on the back.
Famous Quotes in the Law
"The law is the last result of human wisdom acting upon human experience for the benefit of the public."
-Samuel Johnson
Thursday, 20 September 2007
Famous Quotes in the Law
Famous Quotes in the Law
Visit this siteSTOP THE BNP
"I shall not rest until every German sees that it is a shameful thing to be a lawyer."
-Adolph Hitler
Student Money
Speaking to friends of mine they said they made some money from the below site Click Here!whilst at uni. Anyone out there know about this subject? thanks in advance!
Click Here!
Click Here!
Website for the week CPS
http://www.cps.gov.uk/
The Crown Prosecution Service is responsible for prosecuting criminal cases investigated by the police in England and Wales.
http://www.cps.gov.uk/news/pressreleases/160_07.html this link refers to an interesting case explaining the outcome. A very sad outcome and a very sad case.
The Crown Prosecution Service is responsible for prosecuting criminal cases investigated by the police in England and Wales.
http://www.cps.gov.uk/news/pressreleases/160_07.html this link refers to an interesting case explaining the outcome. A very sad outcome and a very sad case.
Useful websites
Butterworths - All England Reports and Halsbury's
CareData Web - Social Welfare Law (Username and password required)
Current Legal Information
Database of Journals (Username and password required)
EBSCO - Database for finding articles etc.
EuroLaw
Law in Black and White - collection of directories detailing recruitment agencies, court locations, expert witnesses.
Law Reports (The) - The law reports the courts required to be used in citation.
Lawtel
Lexis-Nexis Executive - legal news
Proquest - archive for newspapers
Weekly Law Reports
CareData Web - Social Welfare Law (Username and password required)
Current Legal Information
Database of Journals (Username and password required)
EBSCO - Database for finding articles etc.
EuroLaw
Law in Black and White - collection of directories detailing recruitment agencies, court locations, expert witnesses.
Law Reports (The) - The law reports the courts required to be used in citation.
Lawtel
Lexis-Nexis Executive - legal news
Proquest - archive for newspapers
Weekly Law Reports
Famous Quotes in the Law
"A jury consists of twelve persons chosen to decide who has the better lawyer."-Robert Frost
Book Review A Dictionary of Law 5/5 stars
A Dictionary of Law (Oxford Paperback Reference) (Paperback)
Any involvement in law requires a good law dictionary so a full understanding can be gained.
Book Description
This best-selling dictionary is a comprehensive source of clear, jargon-free legal information. It focuses primarily on English law and provides a one-stop source of information for any of the many countries that base their legal system on English law. Over 4,300 entries define and explain the major terms, concepts, processes, and organization of the legal system.
Now greatly improved and expanded for the 6th edition, the dictionary boasts a wealth of new features including recommended weblinks, feature entries on key topics, and greatly expanded coverage of European and International law, as well as key jurisprudence (legal theory) terms. It also includes a brand-new Writing and citation section that specifically addresses problems and established conventions for writing legal essays and reports.
Described by leading university lecturers as ' ... the best law dictionary at present ...' and ' ... excellent for non law students as well as law undergraduates ... ', this classic dictionary is a handy and invaluable source of legal reference for professionals, students, and anyone else needing succinct clarification of legal terms.
Any involvement in law requires a good law dictionary so a full understanding can be gained.
Book Description
This best-selling dictionary is a comprehensive source of clear, jargon-free legal information. It focuses primarily on English law and provides a one-stop source of information for any of the many countries that base their legal system on English law. Over 4,300 entries define and explain the major terms, concepts, processes, and organization of the legal system.
Now greatly improved and expanded for the 6th edition, the dictionary boasts a wealth of new features including recommended weblinks, feature entries on key topics, and greatly expanded coverage of European and International law, as well as key jurisprudence (legal theory) terms. It also includes a brand-new Writing and citation section that specifically addresses problems and established conventions for writing legal essays and reports.
Described by leading university lecturers as ' ... the best law dictionary at present ...' and ' ... excellent for non law students as well as law undergraduates ... ', this classic dictionary is a handy and invaluable source of legal reference for professionals, students, and anyone else needing succinct clarification of legal terms.
Key case; R v Gomez (house of lords 1993)
Key case; R v Gomez (house of lords 1993)
Gomez
Vs state of mind is irrelevant; lack of consent is not a requirement for appropriation. Technically, anyone doing anything whatsoever to property which belongs to another, with or without the owner’s consent, appropriates it
This Case R v Gomez (1993) involves the defended Gomez and his friend {A}. {A} was in possession of stolen cheques, Gomez worked in a store in London {A} approached Gomez and asked him to use the stolen cheques in acquirer a large some of electrical goods. Gomez accepted and took the stolen cheques knowing them to be stolen to the store manger informing him that he had confirmed these cheques.
The manager on this information was then requested by Gomez to authorize the supply for these goods, which he did because he believed that the cheques had been confirmed. Goods where delivered to {A}. the cheques where then found to be stolen {A} and Gomez was then arrested for the theft of these goods.
Gomez case went to trial, Gomez defence counsel submitted a no case to answer plea on the grounds that one of the five points to prove for the offence of theft was missing i.e. the ‘appropriation’.
On appeal in the House of Lords the Case Lawrence V Metropolitan Police commissioner was referred to.
Gomez
Vs state of mind is irrelevant; lack of consent is not a requirement for appropriation. Technically, anyone doing anything whatsoever to property which belongs to another, with or without the owner’s consent, appropriates it
This Case R v Gomez (1993) involves the defended Gomez and his friend {A}. {A} was in possession of stolen cheques, Gomez worked in a store in London {A} approached Gomez and asked him to use the stolen cheques in acquirer a large some of electrical goods. Gomez accepted and took the stolen cheques knowing them to be stolen to the store manger informing him that he had confirmed these cheques.
The manager on this information was then requested by Gomez to authorize the supply for these goods, which he did because he believed that the cheques had been confirmed. Goods where delivered to {A}. the cheques where then found to be stolen {A} and Gomez was then arrested for the theft of these goods.
Gomez case went to trial, Gomez defence counsel submitted a no case to answer plea on the grounds that one of the five points to prove for the offence of theft was missing i.e. the ‘appropriation’.
On appeal in the House of Lords the Case Lawrence V Metropolitan Police commissioner was referred to.
The Theft Act 1968 Introduction
As a ex police officer this is one of the most common offences that I came into contact with, and is also the first thing you learn at police training school. This is because if you understand this offence other offence's become clearer to understand as well.
Below are some notes that I hope you will find helpful to understand the act and the case laws.
Section 1 Theft Act 1968
Section 1 of the Theft Act 1968 States that;
“A person is guilty of theft if he dishonestly appropriates property belonging to another with the intention of permanently depriving the other of it”
five “points to prove” which need to be proved for the offence of theft to be committed in full. If one element is missing then no offence of theft has been committed.
The Actus Reus of Theft
1.Appropriation
2.Property
3.Belonging to Another
Mens Rea of theft
1.Dishonestly
2.Intention to Permanently Deprive
Look at my other postings to see case law and the points to prove in detail
Brown threatening Mugabe boycott
Prime Minister Gordon Brown has said he would boycott a summit of African and EU leaders in December if Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe attends.Gordon Brown says it is "him or me" at the EU-AU summit
"There is widespread torture and mass intimidation of the political opposition"
Gordon Brown
This has something to do with Law because of the EU imposed targeted sanctions.
I dont know what your veiws are but I say 'WELL DONE BROWN'!!!!
STOP the BNP
Stop the BNP this is an important read please look http://www.stopthebnp.org.uk/
Who says today’s politicians lack convictions. The British National Party is brimming with them – all of a criminal nature. “The BNP will crack down on crime and restore public safety and confidence,” its website states. But despite claiming to be a party of law and order, the BNP is home to criminals, racist thugs and football hooligans. The ranks of the criminals extend to the very highest level of the party. They include:
Nick Griffin (Party Chairman) Received a two-year suspended sentence in April 1998 for inciting racial hatred. His magazine The Rune carried obscene anti-Semitic and Holocaust denial material as well as crude racism.
Tony Lecomber
Tony Lecomber (Group Development Officer). In 1985 he was convicted on five counts for offences under the Explosives Act, including possession of homemade hand-grenades and electronic timing devices. Sentenced to three-years imprisonment.
In 1991 he was sentenced to another three years imprisonment for unlawful wounding for his part in an attack on a Jewish schoolteacher whom he caught trying to peel off a BNP sticker at an underground station. He has a total of 12 convictions.
Colin Smith (South East London organiser). Has amassed a total of 17 convictions for burglary, theft, stealing cars, possession of drugs and assaulting a police officer.
John Tyndall (founder of the BNP). Six convictions. In 1962 he was jailed for organising a paramilitary organisation. Four years later, he was again sent to prison for possession of a loaded gun. In 1986, he was convicted for incitement to racial hatred under the Public Order Act and sentenced to 12 months imprisonment.
Warren Bennett (Chief Steward). Supposed to keep order in the party yet has convictions for football hooliganism. In 1998, he was deported from France with over 50 other Scottish hooligans, including several BNP members.
Steve Belshaw (East Midlands BNP organiser. Was convicted in 1994 for assaulting a lawyer in his home-town of Mansfield. At the time, Belshaw combined his BNP membership with Combat 18 activity.
Kevin Scott (North East Regional Organiser). Was convicted in 1993 for hurling a glass at a black customer in a pub.
Alan Gould (Waltham Forest Organiser). Was convicted in 2000 for racially abusing people in a local pub. He told the court that it was the drink getting the better of him.
Robert Bennett
Robert Bennett. A leading activist in Oldham BNP during the 2002 elections campaign, Bennett has served five years in prison for the gang rape of a woman. He has also served seven years for armed robbery and has over 30 convictions in total.
Mick Treacy. The Oldham organiser has five convictions for violence, theft, and handling stolen goods
Darren Dobson. Found guilty of racially aggravated assault at Oldham magistrates in November 2001. Fined £300. Connected to football hooligans in the Oldham area, and has links to the nazi terror group Combat 18
Darren Hoy. April 2002, the BNP supporter was sent to prison for 3 months for racially abusing people as they left an anti-fascist rally in Oldham.
In spite of this imposing list, when pressed by the BBC Panorama team in September 2001 on the convictions of its leading members, party leader Nick Griffin just lied. He claimed Tony Lecomber, his deputy merely had a conviction for handling fireworks. He also claimed that party chief steward Warren Bennett had a minor conviction “some 15 years ago” but had not been in trouble since. The truth is that Bennett has been named in the Scottish press for violence as recently as 2002. Griffin also tried to claim that Colin Smith had no convictions.
Key facts
Racism is at the very heart of the British National Party. It is racism that separates it from any other political party. And it is racism that attracts many of its members.
Of course the BNP denies this. It knows how hateful its views appear, and has tried to make its language less crude. But the song remains the same. BNP publications are still filled with racist articles, lies about immigration and asylum, and distorted figures in an attempt to portray black people as criminals and dole scroungers.
Today, the BNP has dropped its policy of compulsory repatriation and replaced it with a voluntary scheme. Make no mistake about it, this move is designed to win over supporters. The party recognise that the vast majority of people found its previous policy abhorrent. But the small print of BNP policy makes clear its true aims. The BNP claims that a BNP led government would consider forcible repatriation if not enough “non-whites” took up its offer.
If the BNP does not publicly support compulsory repatriation, it makes no attempt to hide its backing for an apartheid state in Britain. Current party literature proposes to “protect and preserve the racial and cultural integrity of the British people – and of others too, the party believes in separation”.
According to the BNP 2001 general election manifesto, “native Britons”, who they claim can only be white, would be given priority in the job market. “Non-whites” would instantly become second class citizens in Britain.
Any black person who commits a crime would also be thrown out of the country, even those who were born here.
Mixed race relationships would be outlawed.
Privately, the BNP leaders have continued to air their real political views. “All black people will be repatriated, even if they were born here”, BNP leader Nick Griffin told Wales on Sunday in 1996. “We must preserve the white race, because it has been responsible for all the good things in civilisation”.
According to party number two, Tony Lecomber, the preservation of the white race can be done through a racial eugenic programme.
The BNP supported ethnic cleansing in the Kosovan crisis. “The Serbs’ real crime isn’t the harshness with which they have expelled so many of the Albanian Muslims who having become the majority in the Kosovan heart of Serbia by a mixture of immigration, a high birth rate, and low level ethnic cleansing of the native Serbs… No! The real crime in the eyes of the powerful advocates of a multi-racial New World Order is for any people to demand the right to preserve their own identity and freedom”.
The BNP says they have no truck with “race hate”. Another outrageous lie. The jokes, caricatures, cartoons and articles depict black people as stupid, criminally minded and ugly. Time and again, BNP publications talk about the genetic superiority of the white race.
Several BNP members have put this racism into practice:
Former National Organiser Richard Edmonds was convicted for his part in a vicious bottle attack on a mixed race couple in a pub in East London 1993
BNP supporter Stuart Kerr was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment for firebombing an Asian shop in Chichester, Sussex
BNP leader Nick Griffin was convicted of incitement to racial hatred in April 1998
London nail bomber: David Copeland
The BNP organiser for Waltham Forest, Alan Gould, was convicted of racially abusing people in a pub in 2000
Former BNP member David Copeland was sentenced to six life sentences after planting bombs in London. He wanted to start a race war.
On other occasions, the BNP has glorified racist attacks. In 1991, the BNP newspaper gloated after several BNP supporters stabbed an African immigrant at London Bridge station. The victim had his “kidney surgically removed”, the paper boasted. In the same year, the BNP leadership whipped up a racist riot in Bermondsey, London, and led an attack on an anti-racist meeting that was protesting against the BNP headquaters in Welling. Thirteen people needed hospital treatment.
A BNP presence has almost always culminated in “race hate”. When Derek Beackon was elected as a BNP councillor in Millwall, racist attacks in the area soared by 300%
Who says today’s politicians lack convictions. The British National Party is brimming with them – all of a criminal nature. “The BNP will crack down on crime and restore public safety and confidence,” its website states. But despite claiming to be a party of law and order, the BNP is home to criminals, racist thugs and football hooligans. The ranks of the criminals extend to the very highest level of the party. They include:
Nick Griffin (Party Chairman) Received a two-year suspended sentence in April 1998 for inciting racial hatred. His magazine The Rune carried obscene anti-Semitic and Holocaust denial material as well as crude racism.
Tony Lecomber
Tony Lecomber (Group Development Officer). In 1985 he was convicted on five counts for offences under the Explosives Act, including possession of homemade hand-grenades and electronic timing devices. Sentenced to three-years imprisonment.
In 1991 he was sentenced to another three years imprisonment for unlawful wounding for his part in an attack on a Jewish schoolteacher whom he caught trying to peel off a BNP sticker at an underground station. He has a total of 12 convictions.
Colin Smith (South East London organiser). Has amassed a total of 17 convictions for burglary, theft, stealing cars, possession of drugs and assaulting a police officer.
John Tyndall (founder of the BNP). Six convictions. In 1962 he was jailed for organising a paramilitary organisation. Four years later, he was again sent to prison for possession of a loaded gun. In 1986, he was convicted for incitement to racial hatred under the Public Order Act and sentenced to 12 months imprisonment.
Warren Bennett (Chief Steward). Supposed to keep order in the party yet has convictions for football hooliganism. In 1998, he was deported from France with over 50 other Scottish hooligans, including several BNP members.
Steve Belshaw (East Midlands BNP organiser. Was convicted in 1994 for assaulting a lawyer in his home-town of Mansfield. At the time, Belshaw combined his BNP membership with Combat 18 activity.
Kevin Scott (North East Regional Organiser). Was convicted in 1993 for hurling a glass at a black customer in a pub.
Alan Gould (Waltham Forest Organiser). Was convicted in 2000 for racially abusing people in a local pub. He told the court that it was the drink getting the better of him.
Robert Bennett
Robert Bennett. A leading activist in Oldham BNP during the 2002 elections campaign, Bennett has served five years in prison for the gang rape of a woman. He has also served seven years for armed robbery and has over 30 convictions in total.
Mick Treacy. The Oldham organiser has five convictions for violence, theft, and handling stolen goods
Darren Dobson. Found guilty of racially aggravated assault at Oldham magistrates in November 2001. Fined £300. Connected to football hooligans in the Oldham area, and has links to the nazi terror group Combat 18
Darren Hoy. April 2002, the BNP supporter was sent to prison for 3 months for racially abusing people as they left an anti-fascist rally in Oldham.
In spite of this imposing list, when pressed by the BBC Panorama team in September 2001 on the convictions of its leading members, party leader Nick Griffin just lied. He claimed Tony Lecomber, his deputy merely had a conviction for handling fireworks. He also claimed that party chief steward Warren Bennett had a minor conviction “some 15 years ago” but had not been in trouble since. The truth is that Bennett has been named in the Scottish press for violence as recently as 2002. Griffin also tried to claim that Colin Smith had no convictions.
Key facts
Racism is at the very heart of the British National Party. It is racism that separates it from any other political party. And it is racism that attracts many of its members.
Of course the BNP denies this. It knows how hateful its views appear, and has tried to make its language less crude. But the song remains the same. BNP publications are still filled with racist articles, lies about immigration and asylum, and distorted figures in an attempt to portray black people as criminals and dole scroungers.
Today, the BNP has dropped its policy of compulsory repatriation and replaced it with a voluntary scheme. Make no mistake about it, this move is designed to win over supporters. The party recognise that the vast majority of people found its previous policy abhorrent. But the small print of BNP policy makes clear its true aims. The BNP claims that a BNP led government would consider forcible repatriation if not enough “non-whites” took up its offer.
If the BNP does not publicly support compulsory repatriation, it makes no attempt to hide its backing for an apartheid state in Britain. Current party literature proposes to “protect and preserve the racial and cultural integrity of the British people – and of others too, the party believes in separation”.
According to the BNP 2001 general election manifesto, “native Britons”, who they claim can only be white, would be given priority in the job market. “Non-whites” would instantly become second class citizens in Britain.
Any black person who commits a crime would also be thrown out of the country, even those who were born here.
Mixed race relationships would be outlawed.
Privately, the BNP leaders have continued to air their real political views. “All black people will be repatriated, even if they were born here”, BNP leader Nick Griffin told Wales on Sunday in 1996. “We must preserve the white race, because it has been responsible for all the good things in civilisation”.
According to party number two, Tony Lecomber, the preservation of the white race can be done through a racial eugenic programme.
The BNP supported ethnic cleansing in the Kosovan crisis. “The Serbs’ real crime isn’t the harshness with which they have expelled so many of the Albanian Muslims who having become the majority in the Kosovan heart of Serbia by a mixture of immigration, a high birth rate, and low level ethnic cleansing of the native Serbs… No! The real crime in the eyes of the powerful advocates of a multi-racial New World Order is for any people to demand the right to preserve their own identity and freedom”.
The BNP says they have no truck with “race hate”. Another outrageous lie. The jokes, caricatures, cartoons and articles depict black people as stupid, criminally minded and ugly. Time and again, BNP publications talk about the genetic superiority of the white race.
Several BNP members have put this racism into practice:
Former National Organiser Richard Edmonds was convicted for his part in a vicious bottle attack on a mixed race couple in a pub in East London 1993
BNP supporter Stuart Kerr was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment for firebombing an Asian shop in Chichester, Sussex
BNP leader Nick Griffin was convicted of incitement to racial hatred in April 1998
London nail bomber: David Copeland
The BNP organiser for Waltham Forest, Alan Gould, was convicted of racially abusing people in a pub in 2000
Former BNP member David Copeland was sentenced to six life sentences after planting bombs in London. He wanted to start a race war.
On other occasions, the BNP has glorified racist attacks. In 1991, the BNP newspaper gloated after several BNP supporters stabbed an African immigrant at London Bridge station. The victim had his “kidney surgically removed”, the paper boasted. In the same year, the BNP leadership whipped up a racist riot in Bermondsey, London, and led an attack on an anti-racist meeting that was protesting against the BNP headquaters in Welling. Thirteen people needed hospital treatment.
A BNP presence has almost always culminated in “race hate”. When Derek Beackon was elected as a BNP councillor in Millwall, racist attacks in the area soared by 300%
David Irving to speak at a university near you?
Any law student reading this blog please take note of the following
David Irving to speak at a university near you?
David Irving is to speak in a university debate on 23 November on "free speech". However the Holocaust denial writer, who was recently barred permanently from entering Austria, was careful not to reveal which student union had been so misguided as to ask him.
Students and university staff are asked to let us know about any debates booked for 23 November, or thereabouts, that might be the one hosting Irving so that we can take steps to prevent this blatant misuse of academic freedom to promote his Nazi agenda.
Irving was released from an Austrian prison last December after serving part of a three-year term for denying the Holocaust. Since then he has been active promoting Holocaust denial in Hungary, where he addressed a far-right rally on 15 March 2007. He fared less well in Poland where he was expelled from the 52nd Warsaw International Book Fair because his writings contravened Polish law.
The reason for Irving's caution over his debating engagement was clear from his correspondence, reproduced on his website, with Andrew Mackenzie, president of the European Society at the University of St Andrews. Mackenzie had asked Irving to suggest dates on which he could come and speak about "the holocaust and Adolf Hitler", but rapidly withdrew the invitation after the university "raised concerns" about "security and use of their property".
Later this week Irving is due to speak at two public meetings - Coventry on 21 September and the following evening in Windsor, where moved into a large house earlier this month. His subject will be "who dug the grave of the British Empire - Hitler or Churchill". Strict security is to be observed with "rights of admission strictly reserved". Those wishing to attend are warned to bring "satisfactory ID".
This is certainly a step up for Irving who has recently been seen hawking his books from a tent in a field at a Second World War re-enactment event in Kent, where middle-aged men got the opportunity to dress up as SS members. The event attracted all shades of extremist opinion including a number of members of Belgian Blood and Honour.
Please take the time to visit this website
http://www.stopthebnp.org.uk/
Law gone mad?
This is my news story of the day put a smile on my face (from the BBC new website.
Man, 72, refused alcohol over age
Morrisons shop sign
Staff say all customers are asked for proof of age
Supermarket staff refused to sell alcohol to a white-haired 72-year-old man - because he would not confirm he was over 21.
Check-out staff at Morrisons in West Kirby, Wirral, demanded Tony Ralls prove he was old enough to buy his two bottles of Cabernet Sauvignon.
Mr Ralls asked to see the manager who put the wine back on the shelf.
The grandfather-of-three said he had refused to confirm he was over 21 as it was a "stupid question."
Mr Ralls, a retired insurance firm regional manager, said he expected the store manager to resolve the situation but he was disappointed.
"I felt like saying 'What do I look like? Are you a fool?'
It's bureaucracy gone mad
Tony Ralls
"He picks up the wine and, in the manner of a child taking home his ball, says 'Well, we won't serve you'."
The pensioner abandoned his shopping on the conveyor belt and left the store - but not before demanding a complaints form and phone number for Morrisons' headquarters.
Mr Ralls said: "It is bureaucracy gone mad. If the check-out lady, who was about 40, had asked me with a twinkle in her eye perhaps I would not have been so tetchy.
"But she asked me the question with a perfectly straight face and I said I wouldn't dignify the question with an answer.
"And if the manager had explained that all the staff had to ask everyone because they had previously been fined, but said I was clearly over 21, it would have been fine - but he showed no sense of humour."
Mr Ralls added that he felt embarrassed to return to the supermarket and wanted an apology for "the stupid and unnecessary confrontation."
He added: "I applaud any efforts to stop kids being served and standing on street corners getting drunk. But this was just totally stupid."
A Morrisons spokesman said: "We take our responsibility with regard to selling alcohol very seriously and all our stores operate the Task 21 scheme, which addresses the difficulties our staff face in being able to determine if a customer is legally old enough to buy alcohol.
"To further limit any element of doubt staff at the West Kirby store are required to ask anyone buying alcohol to confirm that they are over 21."
Man, 72, refused alcohol over age
Morrisons shop sign
Staff say all customers are asked for proof of age
Supermarket staff refused to sell alcohol to a white-haired 72-year-old man - because he would not confirm he was over 21.
Check-out staff at Morrisons in West Kirby, Wirral, demanded Tony Ralls prove he was old enough to buy his two bottles of Cabernet Sauvignon.
Mr Ralls asked to see the manager who put the wine back on the shelf.
The grandfather-of-three said he had refused to confirm he was over 21 as it was a "stupid question."
Mr Ralls, a retired insurance firm regional manager, said he expected the store manager to resolve the situation but he was disappointed.
"I felt like saying 'What do I look like? Are you a fool?'
It's bureaucracy gone mad
Tony Ralls
"He picks up the wine and, in the manner of a child taking home his ball, says 'Well, we won't serve you'."
The pensioner abandoned his shopping on the conveyor belt and left the store - but not before demanding a complaints form and phone number for Morrisons' headquarters.
Mr Ralls said: "It is bureaucracy gone mad. If the check-out lady, who was about 40, had asked me with a twinkle in her eye perhaps I would not have been so tetchy.
"But she asked me the question with a perfectly straight face and I said I wouldn't dignify the question with an answer.
"And if the manager had explained that all the staff had to ask everyone because they had previously been fined, but said I was clearly over 21, it would have been fine - but he showed no sense of humour."
Mr Ralls added that he felt embarrassed to return to the supermarket and wanted an apology for "the stupid and unnecessary confrontation."
He added: "I applaud any efforts to stop kids being served and standing on street corners getting drunk. But this was just totally stupid."
A Morrisons spokesman said: "We take our responsibility with regard to selling alcohol very seriously and all our stores operate the Task 21 scheme, which addresses the difficulties our staff face in being able to determine if a customer is legally old enough to buy alcohol.
"To further limit any element of doubt staff at the West Kirby store are required to ask anyone buying alcohol to confirm that they are over 21."
How asylum affects Britain?
Below is an artical posted in the sun however is an interesting read.
By TIM SPANTON
FIGURES out yesterday were hailed by the Government as showing it is winning the war against bogus refugees.
The number seeking asylum has halved and a fifth more of those rejected are being expelled, said the Home Office.
Many people remain unconvinced, especially when they hear almost daily of unsavoury incidents involving illegal immigrants.
Most newcomers to Britain are honest people seeking a better life. But a hardcore minority turns to lawbreaking.
The Sun measured the problem by sitting in on three days at magistrates’ courts. We heard allegations of murder, terrorism, human trafficking, burglary, drink-driving and theft.
Britain has 92,685 asylum seekers plus 350,000 illegal immigrants, that is 0.74 per cent of the population. But on our days in court they formed 21.1 per cent of defendants.
Our survey does not claim to be scientific. But it does show how a sizeable proportion of those supposedly seeking a safe haven in Britain are abusing our hospitality. Below are some of the cases.
CASE 1
DAY ONE. BOW STREET MAGISTRATES' COURT, CENTRAL LONDON
A boozy asylum seeker from the former Yugoslavia was banned from driving for 15 months and ordered to pay a £200 fine plus £50 costs. Ded Nikolla admitted driving with excess alcohol and without insurance in his Ford Escort.
“Police saw the vehicle wheeling between two lanes along the Strand,” said prosecutor Deidre Dickens.
Andrew Moxon, defending, said Nikolla, 31, had been to a staff party at the restaurant where he worked in North London. He added:“He is a Yugoslavian national who came to the country in 2001. He was caught up in the troubles there. He claimed asylum and has been granted indefinite leave to remain.”
CASE 2
DAY ONE. BOW STREET MAGISTRATES’ COURT, CENTRAL LONDON
Mousa Kamara was accused of five charges of helping illegal immigrants enter via Stansted airport. He is also accused of harbouring two people at his home in Stratford, East London.
Nigerian Kamara, 43, is also charged with using a forged driving licence in the name of a dead man and dishonestly obtaining a passport. He has been remanded in custody until September 5 for committal to crown court.
CASE 3
DAY ONE. BOW STREET MAGISTRATES’ COURT, CENTRAL LONDON
Libyan Ishmael Kamoka was found with almost £6,000 in various currencies to be used for terrorism, the court was told.
Samantha Leek, prosecuting, said the Met Police were seeking to keep the haul under the Anti-Terrorism, Crime And Security Act.
Detective Constable John Ball told the court: “There are reasonable grounds to suspect the money is terrorist cash or would be used for the purposes of terrorism.”
Kamoka, 38, is being held at Category A Belmarsh prison, South London. A court official said he had not been charged with any terrorist offences.
CASE 4
DAY TWO. HORSEFERRY ROAD MAGISTRATES’ COURT, WEST LONDON
Two Palestinian asylum seekers admitted stealing clothes worth £238 from Debenhams. Yasir Abouatiya and Mohammed Ramdane, both of no fixed address, were challenged by security staff as they left the store in Oxford Street, Central London.
“They made no attempt to pay,” said prosecutor Claire Campbell. “Abouatiya was chased down the street on foot.”
Abouatiya, 31, was sentenced to a day in jail or £100 fine but was freed as he had been in custody since his arrest. The court heard he could be deported. Ramdane, 30, will be sentenced today.
CASE 5
DAY THREE. BOW STREET MAGISTRATES’ COURT, CENTRAL LONDON
Vietnamese asylum seeker Anh Nguyen admitted his second shoplifting offence since coming to Britain six months ago.
Nguyen was first cautioned for the crime in July. This time he was fined £75 with £55 costs.
Prosecutor Peter Man said: “Nguyen was seen to enter Lillywhites in Regent Street carrying a bag. He picked up four T-shirts from a display and went to the ground floor, where he walked into a corner and concealed them in the bag. He admitted stealing the T-shirts, total value £42.”
Nguyen, 22, of Peckham, South London, does not speak English.
CASE 6
DAY THREE. BOW STREET MAGISTRATES’ COURT, CENTRAL LONDON
An Arab fled to Britain after killing a woman in Holland, the court heard. Abderrahim Hakim, 26, of no fixed address, faces extradition accused of murdering Catherina Overduik last December.
Colin Nott, defending, asked for further time to take instructions. He said: “My client has indicated he has never been anywhere near Holland.” Hakim was remanded in custody until September 17.
CASE 7
DAY THREE. BOW STREET MAGISTRATES’ COURT, CENTRAL LONDON
Russian asylum seeker Sanat Branov was caught sipping a pint of beer when police arrived at a pub break-in. Branov, 22, used a brick to smash his way into the Old Monk in Maddox Street, West London, on August 10.
Branov, of no fixed address, admitted burglary with intent to steal. Branov has been served with an IM3 certificate warning him he could be deported, the court was told.
Jailing him for 12 weeks, Judge Anthony Evans told Branov that Britain’s prison system meant he would be “released after you have served six weeks”.
CASE 8
DAY THREE. BOW STREET MAGISTRATES’ COURT, CENTRAL LONDON
Romanian asylum seeker Marius Radu will be tried next month accused of stealing a mobile phone from a customer at the Crescent Cafe in Leicester Square.
He and another unidentified man are alleged to have distracted the man and taken his mobile while asking for directions to the Underground.
Radu, 21, of Finchley, North London, was unconditionally bailed to return to Bow Street on September 30.
The above is from the Sun News Paper
By TIM SPANTON
FIGURES out yesterday were hailed by the Government as showing it is winning the war against bogus refugees.
The number seeking asylum has halved and a fifth more of those rejected are being expelled, said the Home Office.
Many people remain unconvinced, especially when they hear almost daily of unsavoury incidents involving illegal immigrants.
Most newcomers to Britain are honest people seeking a better life. But a hardcore minority turns to lawbreaking.
The Sun measured the problem by sitting in on three days at magistrates’ courts. We heard allegations of murder, terrorism, human trafficking, burglary, drink-driving and theft.
Britain has 92,685 asylum seekers plus 350,000 illegal immigrants, that is 0.74 per cent of the population. But on our days in court they formed 21.1 per cent of defendants.
Our survey does not claim to be scientific. But it does show how a sizeable proportion of those supposedly seeking a safe haven in Britain are abusing our hospitality. Below are some of the cases.
CASE 1
DAY ONE. BOW STREET MAGISTRATES' COURT, CENTRAL LONDON
A boozy asylum seeker from the former Yugoslavia was banned from driving for 15 months and ordered to pay a £200 fine plus £50 costs. Ded Nikolla admitted driving with excess alcohol and without insurance in his Ford Escort.
“Police saw the vehicle wheeling between two lanes along the Strand,” said prosecutor Deidre Dickens.
Andrew Moxon, defending, said Nikolla, 31, had been to a staff party at the restaurant where he worked in North London. He added:“He is a Yugoslavian national who came to the country in 2001. He was caught up in the troubles there. He claimed asylum and has been granted indefinite leave to remain.”
CASE 2
DAY ONE. BOW STREET MAGISTRATES’ COURT, CENTRAL LONDON
Mousa Kamara was accused of five charges of helping illegal immigrants enter via Stansted airport. He is also accused of harbouring two people at his home in Stratford, East London.
Nigerian Kamara, 43, is also charged with using a forged driving licence in the name of a dead man and dishonestly obtaining a passport. He has been remanded in custody until September 5 for committal to crown court.
CASE 3
DAY ONE. BOW STREET MAGISTRATES’ COURT, CENTRAL LONDON
Libyan Ishmael Kamoka was found with almost £6,000 in various currencies to be used for terrorism, the court was told.
Samantha Leek, prosecuting, said the Met Police were seeking to keep the haul under the Anti-Terrorism, Crime And Security Act.
Detective Constable John Ball told the court: “There are reasonable grounds to suspect the money is terrorist cash or would be used for the purposes of terrorism.”
Kamoka, 38, is being held at Category A Belmarsh prison, South London. A court official said he had not been charged with any terrorist offences.
CASE 4
DAY TWO. HORSEFERRY ROAD MAGISTRATES’ COURT, WEST LONDON
Two Palestinian asylum seekers admitted stealing clothes worth £238 from Debenhams. Yasir Abouatiya and Mohammed Ramdane, both of no fixed address, were challenged by security staff as they left the store in Oxford Street, Central London.
“They made no attempt to pay,” said prosecutor Claire Campbell. “Abouatiya was chased down the street on foot.”
Abouatiya, 31, was sentenced to a day in jail or £100 fine but was freed as he had been in custody since his arrest. The court heard he could be deported. Ramdane, 30, will be sentenced today.
CASE 5
DAY THREE. BOW STREET MAGISTRATES’ COURT, CENTRAL LONDON
Vietnamese asylum seeker Anh Nguyen admitted his second shoplifting offence since coming to Britain six months ago.
Nguyen was first cautioned for the crime in July. This time he was fined £75 with £55 costs.
Prosecutor Peter Man said: “Nguyen was seen to enter Lillywhites in Regent Street carrying a bag. He picked up four T-shirts from a display and went to the ground floor, where he walked into a corner and concealed them in the bag. He admitted stealing the T-shirts, total value £42.”
Nguyen, 22, of Peckham, South London, does not speak English.
CASE 6
DAY THREE. BOW STREET MAGISTRATES’ COURT, CENTRAL LONDON
An Arab fled to Britain after killing a woman in Holland, the court heard. Abderrahim Hakim, 26, of no fixed address, faces extradition accused of murdering Catherina Overduik last December.
Colin Nott, defending, asked for further time to take instructions. He said: “My client has indicated he has never been anywhere near Holland.” Hakim was remanded in custody until September 17.
CASE 7
DAY THREE. BOW STREET MAGISTRATES’ COURT, CENTRAL LONDON
Russian asylum seeker Sanat Branov was caught sipping a pint of beer when police arrived at a pub break-in. Branov, 22, used a brick to smash his way into the Old Monk in Maddox Street, West London, on August 10.
Branov, of no fixed address, admitted burglary with intent to steal. Branov has been served with an IM3 certificate warning him he could be deported, the court was told.
Jailing him for 12 weeks, Judge Anthony Evans told Branov that Britain’s prison system meant he would be “released after you have served six weeks”.
CASE 8
DAY THREE. BOW STREET MAGISTRATES’ COURT, CENTRAL LONDON
Romanian asylum seeker Marius Radu will be tried next month accused of stealing a mobile phone from a customer at the Crescent Cafe in Leicester Square.
He and another unidentified man are alleged to have distracted the man and taken his mobile while asking for directions to the Underground.
Radu, 21, of Finchley, North London, was unconditionally bailed to return to Bow Street on September 30.
The above is from the Sun News Paper
Promotion Crammer for Sergeants and Inspectors (Janes Police Handbooks) (Paperback)
My Book review for this week is Promotion Crammer for Sergeants and Inspectors (Janes Police Handbooks) (Paperback)
This book is a great read and a must for anyone sitting the part one exam so many officers I know use this to get through the exam.
It is set out in an easy to read formatt using tables and flow charts instead of endless text, making it more easy to read and remember the key points.
Four out of Five Stars
Below are what other people had to say about it............
A five star book, 5 Mar 2003
Reviewer: A reader
This book is easy to follow,and breaks down all you need to know into bite sized portions.
Like the Blackstones books it deals with all aspects of policing in appropriately headed chapters. Unlike the blackstones its all in one handy, concise publications.
Highlighted are the key words and phrases that might come up in the part one exam.
What I particularly like about this book is the Q&A format and the flow diagrams. This makes it easy to read, revise and have someone test you on.
A great book, and highly recommended. If only I had known about it sooner.
Essential reading for Police Officers seeking promtion, 17 Dec 2001
Reviewer: A reader
Well presented, in order, to the point, it's just what it says it is on the cover. This book is essential reading for Police Officers seeking promotion. Each section of law is broken down and flow charts are included in some more difficult to grasp areas. Each section also mentions whether there is a power of arrest and any possible defences. It contains all the information required to pass a part 1 OSPRE exam including the Police and Crimnial Evidence Act in just 293 pages.
Great Study Aid, Easy to follow, 12 Dec 2002
Reviewer: A reader
I would recommend this book to anyone studying for the OSPRE exam. It is best to get the most upto date edition (this year's is 50% thicker than last year due to the amount of new legislation) so I have bought the 2003 version. The book is laid out in the 4 subject areas, traffic, crime, evidence and procedure, general police duties and follows a question and answer format.
I have been using Blackstones for my studying but this book complements that by providing a simple, easy to understand interpretation of the basic law required for part 1. The idea is that you learn each section in small bite-size chunks so that you know the content of the pages and a partner or friend can then test your knowledge by reading the questions to you.
"The book is aimed at summarising the important information without the complex legal jargon and language of Blackstones, making it a useful study aid. It's easy to follow, using question and answer and diagrams to explain the law in a way that's easy to understand.
My only complaint is that it took so long to get hold of a copy -as it has only just been published 3 months before the exam, but if you are looking for a book which summarises the main topics to learn in easy to understand language then this is the book for you. It's also a convenient size to carry about with you or take away for a weekend if you still want to do some study".
Common Sense?
Paedophile sentence under review
Michael Porter
Porter abused his position of trust in the Jehovah's Witnesses
Paedophile sentence under review
How is this common sense? Safey of the public and children depend on common sense of the courts and the sentences issued. A man who clearly put children at risk escapes jail is this justice for his victims and the public as awhole, no is my strong point of veiw
Here is the acticl from the BBC News website;
The case of a paedophile who sexually assaulted children is to be reviewed by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
Michael Porter, 38, of Okehampton Close, north London, got a three-year community rehabilitation order for abusing young boys.
The Attorney General has said Porter's sentence, imposed at Bristol Crown Court last month, was "unduly lenient".
Porter used his position in the Jehovah's Witnesses to abuse victims in Clevedon over a 14-year period.
One was an 18-month-old baby.
"A relieved public will greatly welcome this common sense decision to review this wicked abuser's sentence"
Dan Norris, Labour MP
Porter pleaded guilty to 25 counts of indecent assault and gross indecency on young boys.
The Court of Appeal will now review the case to decide whether to increase Porter's sentence.
A statement from the Attorney General's office said: "After a careful review, the Attorney General Baroness Scotland has decided to refer the sentence.
"She considers the sentence to be unduly lenient.
"It will now be for the Court of Appeal to decide at a future hearing whether or not to increase the sentence."
Judge Tom Crowther opted not to jail the self-confessed paedophile after hearing he had undergone therapy.
Dan Norris, Labour MP for Wansdyke, Somerset, and a former child protection officer, welcomed the Attorney General's decision.
"A relieved public will greatly welcome this common sense decision to review this wicked abuser's sentence," he said
Source from the BBC News website
I feel like many people I am sure that this matter needs to be looked at closely to prevent such things ever happening again. Child protection officers and the public as a whole deserve better than this. Lets hope the case is reviewed and in the future a correct sentence is put in place. This completely sends out the wrong message 25 counts of indecent assault and gross indecency on young boys and escapes jail?.
Famous Quotes in Law
Famous Quotes in the Law
My Quote of the day
SIR EDWARD COKE (1552-1634)
"Reason is the life of the law; nay, the common law itself is nothing else but reason . . . . The law, which is perfection of reason."
First Institute [1628]
"For a man's house is his castle, et domus sua cuique tutissimum refugium."
Third Institute [1644]
"The house of everyone is to him as his castle and fortress, as well for his defense against injury and violence as for his repose."
Semayne's Case. 5 Report 91
"They [corporations] cannot commit treason, nor be outlawed nor excommunicate, for they have no souls."
Case of Sutton's Hospital. 10 Report 32
My Quote of the day
SIR EDWARD COKE (1552-1634)
"Reason is the life of the law; nay, the common law itself is nothing else but reason . . . . The law, which is perfection of reason."
First Institute [1628]
"For a man's house is his castle, et domus sua cuique tutissimum refugium."
Third Institute [1644]
"The house of everyone is to him as his castle and fortress, as well for his defense against injury and violence as for his repose."
Semayne's Case. 5 Report 91
"They [corporations] cannot commit treason, nor be outlawed nor excommunicate, for they have no souls."
Case of Sutton's Hospital. 10 Report 32
Wednesday, 19 September 2007
PND WRONG MESSAGE!
Fines to keep 'yobs' out of court
Wrong message
Cindy Barnett, chairman of the Magistrates' Association, told the Times the proposals undermined the gravity of serious offences.
"These are crimes that involve victims, and sometimes violence, and some of them are at the top end of what government research has shown the public regard as serious. They should not be dealt with by penalty notice. What kind of message does this send out?
"Serious offences will end up being sentenced by the police and/or prosecution, and underlying problems such as drug abuse will be missed, because speed is seen as more important than taking people to court through a proper process.
"Magistrates are unanimous and we have already given the lord chancellor the very clear message from every part of England and Wales that the government has already gone too far with these measures."
The above I agree with so strongly this is a very important issue for the victim! The victim I feel must have a day in court so they feel justice has been carried out.
Wrong message
Cindy Barnett, chairman of the Magistrates' Association, told the Times the proposals undermined the gravity of serious offences.
"These are crimes that involve victims, and sometimes violence, and some of them are at the top end of what government research has shown the public regard as serious. They should not be dealt with by penalty notice. What kind of message does this send out?
"Serious offences will end up being sentenced by the police and/or prosecution, and underlying problems such as drug abuse will be missed, because speed is seen as more important than taking people to court through a proper process.
"Magistrates are unanimous and we have already given the lord chancellor the very clear message from every part of England and Wales that the government has already gone too far with these measures."
The above I agree with so strongly this is a very important issue for the victim! The victim I feel must have a day in court so they feel justice has been carried out.
Points of view regarding PND
Catherine Dyer, area procurator fiscal for Glasgow and Strathkelvin, said that the roll-out of fixed penalty notices across Strathclyde would allow anti-social offences to be dealt with immediately.
Scottish Conservative justice spokesman Bill Aitken said: "People could commit a multitude of crimes and yet merely get on-the-spot-fines, without any proper criminal record.
"Crime and offences are on the increase, police stations are going part-time and now we have pay-as-you-go criminals."
He added: "Whilst reducing pressure on our police and criminal justice system is a laudable aim, it cannot be done for the convenience of the criminal or to massage crime statistics."
{source bbc news}
Scottish Conservative justice spokesman Bill Aitken said: "People could commit a multitude of crimes and yet merely get on-the-spot-fines, without any proper criminal record.
"Crime and offences are on the increase, police stations are going part-time and now we have pay-as-you-go criminals."
He added: "Whilst reducing pressure on our police and criminal justice system is a laudable aim, it cannot be done for the convenience of the criminal or to massage crime statistics."
{source bbc news}
Key Points Regarding PNDs
Penalty Notices for Disorder (PNDs) are designed to offer an alternative option for the police to deal with low-level, anti-social and nuisance offending. The scheme provides a non-bureaucratic way to deal quickly with offenders without excessive paperwork and court time.
The penalties are set at two levels:
Upper Tier offences at £80.00
Tier offences at £50.00
Offenders who accept and pay the PND within the time limit allowed do not acquire a criminal record.
Why is a person given a PND?
A PND is given to a person at the discretion of the issuing officer. The officer has to have reason to believe that the person has committed an offence for which a PND is suitable, the offender is an appropriate person and that they have no history of similar offences.
How long have I got to pay my PND?
You have 21 days to pay your PND, starting from the date of issue. The date of issue can be found on the ticket.
What happens if I do not pay the penalty on time?
If you fail to pay the full amount of your PND within 21 days of the date of issue, the fine will increase by 50% and you may be charges with the offence for which the notice had been issued. If you don’t pay the PND at all, it will be registered as a fine, in which case you may have to pay additional bailiffs fees or you may be arrested. If you are charged and convicted you will receive a criminal record and may have to pay court costs in addition to any fine imposed, or you may be given a custodial sentence.
If you believe you should not have been given a PND, you have the right to request a Court hearing within 21 days of the date of issue.
Will the PND give me a criminal record?
A PND is not a conviction therefore it will not result in a criminal record. A record of the notice will be kept for administration purposes. This information may be used to help decide whether or not to issue you with another PND in relation to any subsequent offences for which such notices may be issued.
However, please note that if you fail to pay the PND or request a hearing, legal action taken against you can result in a criminal record.
Who has authority to give me a PND?
All police officers can issue you with a PND if they have reason to believe you have committed and offence. Police community support officers and accredited officers also have powers to issue PND’s.
You have the right to ask the issuing officer for identification. The officer who issues the ticket will write their name and warrant number in Part 1 of your PND.
Once issued with a PND, can the officer ask me to attend a police station?
Police officer’s have the right to request that you attend a police station for fingerprints, DNA samples and photograph’s. They may also request that you attend a police station to be issued with the PND.
Now the below was published in 2006 by a political party these are not my veiws but I think interesting reading. In no way shape of form written by myself!
Reversing the Burden of Proof
"The Times is reporting that proposals drawn up by the Home Office envisages a huge extension of fixed-penalty notices from early 2007.
They would apply to nearly 30 offences, including assault, threatening behaviour, all types of theft up to a value of £100, obstructing or assaulting a police officer, possession of cannabis, and drunkenness, the Times say the move, could remove 250,000 cases from the magistrates’ courts.
Unlike conditional cautions, the fixed-penalty notices do not require the offender to admit guilt, however an offender? Can go to court to contest it.
Given that the bill of Rights 1689 which is still one of the founding documents of the British State and is still statute law (as much as many would wish to ignore it).
Makes it clear "That all grants and promises of fines and forfeitures of particular persons before conviction are illegal and void".
Offering the right to go to court to contest a fixed-penalty notice is simply not good enough, it is in fact reversing the burden of proof, instead of a police officer having to produce evidence in court to prove that an offence has been committed, the accused becomes the offender with out any proof, and will have to appeal against the policeman’s verdict and prove that they did not commit the crime.
Over the past few hundred years we have fought for our protections and gradually these have been put in place. Now New Labour authoritarians want to remove the rights of people against summary and unfair justice, claiming it will free several hundred thousand cases from the courts.
The question is do we want quick summary justice or do we want to protect the people from an over oppressive state".
Famous Quotes in the Law
My famous Quote for today is
The magistrates are the ministers for the laws, the judges their interpreters, the rest of us are servants of the law, that we all may be free.
Marcus Tulius Cicero (106-43 BC) Writer, politician and great roman orator.
My Background
Within this blog I am going to post my notes and views regarding the topics as I learn them, recommending books which I found useful, must reads for anyone with an interest in law hoping that this will be of use to someone?
Well to start with this is my background I am 26 and just finished my career as a serving police officer in Central London. If you asked me a couple of years ago if I would ever think about leaving the Police Service I would have laughed out load and said NO NO NO!. But ever since I can remember I have wanted to be either a barrister or a police office.
Throughout my police career I have seen many changes, many of which I am strongly against, which pushed me away from the police and motivating me more and more towards the career of a barrister.
I could discuss forever why this is but I fear I would run out of blog space! Anyway....
I have just finished my career within the police service in the last couple of days and awaiting to start my Law Degree. Only a couple of days to go!
On a personal note I would like to thank all my colleagues I have worked with and the many friends I have made wish you all the best in the future and take care!
Well to start with this is my background I am 26 and just finished my career as a serving police officer in Central London. If you asked me a couple of years ago if I would ever think about leaving the Police Service I would have laughed out load and said NO NO NO!. But ever since I can remember I have wanted to be either a barrister or a police office.
Throughout my police career I have seen many changes, many of which I am strongly against, which pushed me away from the police and motivating me more and more towards the career of a barrister.
I could discuss forever why this is but I fear I would run out of blog space! Anyway....
I have just finished my career within the police service in the last couple of days and awaiting to start my Law Degree. Only a couple of days to go!
On a personal note I would like to thank all my colleagues I have worked with and the many friends I have made wish you all the best in the future and take care!
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