BLV v R

BLV v R

Convictions on counts 3, 4, 6 are unsafe due to ambiguity in evidence regarding complainant's age; jury was not properly directed; convictions on these counts quashed. Remaining convictions are not tainted and stand.

Parties
Appellant: BLV; Respondent: REX
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
20 March 2025
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal / Judgment on Appeal Against Conviction and Sentence
Outcome
Appeal allowed in part; convictions on counts 3, 4, 6 quashed; remaining convictions undisturbed; sentence reduced.
Legal Topics
Sexual Offences, Appeals, Unsafe Convictions, Child Protection
Criminal Law Sexual Offences Appeals Unsafe Convictions Child Protection

Case Brief

Summary, issues, holding and outcome

More case intelligence is available

Unlock the full research layer for this judgment.

Full judgment text Downloadable case file Legal principles 3 Authorities cited 4 Party arguments 2 Amounts and remedies 3
Sign in to unlock

Parties

BLV

Appellant

REX

Respondent

Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal / Judgment on Appeal Against Conviction and Sentence

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether there was sufficient evidence that the complainant was under 13 at the time of offences charged under s.8 Sexual Offences Act 2003 (counts 3, 4, 6)
  2. 2 Whether unsafe convictions on counts 3, 4, 6 tainted the remaining convictions

Ratio Decidendi

Convictions on counts 3, 4, 6 are unsafe due to ambiguity in evidence regarding complainant's age; jury was not properly directed; convictions on these counts quashed. Remaining convictions are not tainted and stand.

Court Disposition

Appeal allowed in part; convictions on counts 3, 4, 6 quashed; remaining convictions undisturbed; sentence reduced.

Orders

  • Extension of time granted for appeal.
  • Leave to appeal granted on ground 1.