David Birrell and Martine Snowdon secure not guilty verdicts after 4-week fraud trial

February 7, 2024

David Birrell and Martine Snowdon of Exchange Chambers have secured not guilty verdicts following a 4 week fraud trial at Reading Crown Court.

Their clients, who were named first and second on the indictment, were each charged with multiple counts of Fraud by false representation.

The defendants worked as salesmen for a ‘green energy’ company offering solar panels and ground source heat pumps.  The Prosecution, represented by Jonathan Rees KC and Kirsten Murphy, contended that the defendants were ’snake oil salesmen’.  Through skilful cross examination of customers, expert witnesses and investigators, Mr Birrell and Miss Snowdon were able to demonstrate that their clients did not know that the statements they made to clients were untrue.

Mr Birrell was instructed by Sarah Nawrocki at MJP Solicitors.  Miss Snowdon was instructed by Nick Melville of Quinn Melville.