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Actions against the police under the Police Property Act 1897

Criminal Law Specialists

We have advised and represented clients who have had property seized from them for example, expensive jewellery, cars etc and the police refuse to return the property. Proceedings can be taken against the police under s1 (1) of the Police Property Act 1897. This is a specialist area where Middleweeks Solicitors have set a precedent for one of the leading cases namely, Webb v The Chief Constable of Merseyside [LINK]. This is a leading Authority dealing with an action against the police for the return of monies seized during a criminal investigation. Middleweeks Solicitors represented Webb in a successful application for the return of monies seized by the police. Although Middleweeks is a specialist criminal litigation firm, we are experienced in challenging the police in these proceedings which are decided in accordance with civil law. However, the hearing takes place in the Magistrates' court. In certain cases due consideration has to be given as to whether or not the application should be brought under the Torts (Interference with Goods) Act 1977 in the County Court.

Notable Criminal Cases

Over the years, we have been instructed in many of the most serious and complex criminal cases throughout the country. Due to our vast experience and knowledge of the law, we have been able to challenge cases to the highest courts in the country including the House of Lords (now the Supreme Court). Below is a selection of our notable cases.

R v GPP

(Winchester CC) 

This was a complex investigation and subsequent prosecution brought by the Serious Fraud Office (SFO). Our client was an architect charged with Conspiracy to Defraud involving six construction projects. At the time, the trial was thought to be the longest in British history. 

R v J and DS
(Birmingham/Northampton CC)

A two-year operation which took investigators to Hungary, Portugal, Spain, Slovakia, Austria and France as they pursued the gang for flooding the Midlands with £35m contraband cigarettes. In total 18 people were charged. Our client was acquitted of all charges. 

R v C
(Manchester CC)

This was a complex international money laundering case involving Hundi/Hawala banking. The prosecution alleged that millions of pounds were laundered via Dubai and Pakistan. The defence necessitated detailed enquiries by travelling to Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad. This followed a bail application which was successful in our clients release from custody.

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