Law clerk stole wig 'because of race abuse'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A SOLICITOR'S clerk took revenge on a barrister whom he believed had racially abused him by stealing his wig as he was about to attend a hearing, a court was told yesterday.
Lanre Oke, for the defence, told the Old Bailey that John Sandiford was quite properly in the Southend Crown Court robing room, although he was wearing earphones, when he encountered Laurence Marshall, a barrister. 'He was asked what he was doing in what he considered impolite terms.
'That resulted in a heated exchange of words in the course of which the barrister used words to him which he considered racist and very upsetting.'
Sandiford, 29, of Barking, Essex, a solicitor's clerk for seven years, admitted stealing a wig and two collars last December. A charge of stealing Mr Marshall's gown was denied and stays on file.
Mr Oke said the principal motivation in taking the things was to inconvenience Mr Marshall, who was already late for court.
Imposing a three-year conditional discharge and ordering Sandiford to pay pounds 200 costs, Judge Rogers said: 'You are entirely the victim of your own conduct.'
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments