Norwich’s most senior judge yesterday summoned prison bosses to court to explain why a drugs baron was on home leave just 13 months into a six year sentence.Heh! I bet that caused a few 'brown trouser' moments...
He was due before Judge Jacobs yesterday for a hearing under the Proceeds of Crime Act as Norfolk Constabulary attempts to claw back the proceeds of the 35-year-old’s crimes./facepalm
Rafiq, from Dudley, managed five cannabis farms in Norwich and several in the Midlands capable of turning over £1m a year.
But Norwich Prison, where Rafiq is serving a six-year sentence, appeared unaware that he was due in court.
Judge Jacobs also produced a letter he had been sent from Rafiq’s solicitors excusing their client from the court hearing because he had “other commitments”.Perhaps they, and Norwich Prison staff, should be in the dock as well?
He said: “It is quite clear this must be in breach of every rule of the Barrister’s Code of Conduct.”
H/T: Dave Ward via email
Someone certainly needs a short, sharp kick in The Bar Handbook ..
ReplyDeleteIf there was any justice, that's precisely where the Silk would end up .. behind a bar somewhere .. ;)
The only other commitment he should have should be a one way trip to his land of origin.
ReplyDeleteWhats that you say?
He is a 'British' citizen?
Who cares.
Why would a firm of solicitors be subject to the Barristers' Code of Conduct?
ReplyDeleteOr am I missing something new in the English legal system?
He could have impressed HMPS...."Only a nod to my barrister will secure that Bentley coupe on my Black card for you, Governor".
ReplyDeleteAnd I thought the judge would be captivated by a seriously ostentatious 'Get out of Jail free with optional Court attendance' card.
"Why would a firm of solicitors be subject to the Barristers' Code of Conduct?"
ReplyDeletePerhaps it had been cleared by his barristers?