We are pleased to share an exceptional outcome at a committal for sentence hearing for our client, a successful businessman. He had faced three breaches of his Sexual Harm Prevention Order (‘SHPO’), two breaches of his notification requirements, and an additional charge for possession of an offensive weapon.
The Potential Consequences of Breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order
Breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order is a serious criminal offence that is treated severely by the courts. Upon conviction, an individual may face a range of penalties, including a substantial fine, a community order, or a custodial sentence. Where there are multiple breaches, repeated non-compliance, or additional offending, an immediate prison sentence is often a realistic outcome.
In this case, our client faced allegations of three separate SHPO breaches, two breaches of his notification requirements, and an additional offence involving possession of an offensive weapon. Given the number and nature of the allegations, the prospect of immediate custody was a significant concern.
A conviction resulting in imprisonment can have far-reaching consequences beyond the sentence itself, affecting employment, professional reputation, family life, and future interactions with the criminal justice system. This is why obtaining specialist legal representation at the earliest opportunity is crucial when facing allegations of breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
Our Approach
Given the number and nature of the breaches, an immediate custodial sentence would ordinarily have been inevitable, making this an extremely stressful situation for our client.
However, due to the unusual circumstances of the case, instructed counsel, Ms Orla Daly of QEB Hollis Whiteman, successfully persuaded the court to impose a suspended sentence, thereby avoiding immediate custody.
Our Team
The case was prepared by Mr Andrew McArthur, with the assistance of Eva Georgieva and Ms Orla Daly of QEB Hollis Whiteman.
Facing SHPO Breach Allegations? Expert Representation Matters
This result highlights how effective preparation, persuasive mitigation, and specialist advocacy can make a crucial difference, even in cases where an immediate prison sentence appears likely. By presenting the full circumstances of the case and advancing compelling submissions on our client’s behalf, our team secured a suspended sentence and avoided immediate custody.
If you are being investigated for, or have been charged with, breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, notification requirements, or any other serious criminal offence, early legal advice is essential. The consequences can be severe, but the right legal strategy can significantly impact the outcome.
Contact McArthur Solicitors today for confidential, expert advice from a specialist criminal defence team. We are available 24/7 to protect your interests and guide you through every stage of the criminal justice process.
