Going Equipped For Theft
If you are accused of going equipped, the police have to prove that:
- You are outside of your home, and
- That you have with you an item that you intend to use to commit a Theft or Burglary
This can include a very wide range of normal tools such as a crowbar, screwdrivers or bolt cutters, to lock picks or “slim jims” that are much less common for people to carry around. No matter what the item is though, the police have to prove that you have that item intending to use it in the future for some kind of theft, burglary, or other Dishonesty offence.
Going equipped for theft is an either way offence, which means that it can be dealt with in either the Magistrates Court or the Crown Court. Most cases of going equipped can usually be dealt with by the Magistrates Court, but that does not affect your right to elect for jury trial. Like all Dishonesty offences, a conviction for even a minor allegation can have a serious effect on your life and career. It is important that you are represented by a solicitor who can challenge the police evidence, and persuasively present your case to the Court.
The solicitors at Spartans Law have dealt with many going equipped cases. We can represent clients throughout the country.
