This case was the final trial in ‘Operation Baritone,’ an extensive investigation by West Midlands Police into a drive-by shooting in Dudley in January 2021, linked to a longstanding feud between two local families. The conflict had escalated into serious violence, including a prior murder.
In this trial, D1 was charged with murder as a passenger in the shooting vehicle, while D2, represented by Mark, faced charges of Perverting the Course of Justice for allegedly assisting in the disposal of the getaway car. Both defendants had previously left the UK and were arrested upon their return.
The prosecution, led by the pre-eminent James Curtis KC, presented a strong case against D2, citing his close association with the accused and evidence of his involvement in changing the identity of a vehicle connected to the crime. D2 also had a history of handling stolen vehicles, which further complicated his defence.
Despite the substantial evidence, Mark was briefed just three days before the trial commenced and faced numerous challenges, including the complexity of the case involving multiple defendants and an extensive jury bundle.
Ultimately, after 13.5 hours of deliberation, the jury returned a unanimous not guilty verdict for D2, showcasing another successful outcome for Mark and Millennium Chambers.
