Redmond Traynor represented a 14-year-old defendant who was accused of three charges of rape, an offence of assault by penetration, and an offence of ABH.
The defendant had complex mental health needs, including undiagnosed autism and undiagnosed PTSD. The defendant’s symptoms of PTSD involved experiences of dissociation leading to involuntary episodes of violence.
In preparation for trial, Redmond advised that an expert in child psychology should be instructed. Redmond identified an expert with a clinical specialism autism and trauma in children.
At trial, the expert gave evidence on behalf of the defence in relation to the defendant’s autism and the relationship between his PTSD and his experiences of dissociation.
The trial took place over seven days at Luton Youth Court and was prosecuted by King’s Counsel.
The material disclosed by the prosecution was substantial, and required the review of thousands of pages of telephone records, mental health records and school records.
The defendant was acquitted of all charges.
Redmond was instructed by Ameeta Patel and Jodie Dennison of Stryders Solicitors.
Michael Misick, the former premier of the overseas British Territory of the Turks and Caicos…
This article was written for HMRC EIP (Enquiries, Investigations & Powers) Magazine (Feb-March 2026 Issue)…
