Alleged victims express confusion over sexual abuse

Individuals who have accused a former defense lawyer of sexual misconduct reported feeling "confused" by the alleged incidents, according to court proceedings. Alan Harris, 72, from Thorn Park, Plymouth, is currently standing trial at Winchester Crown Court. He faces 12 counts of indecent assault, eight counts of sexual assault, and two counts of rape, with alleged incidents spanning from 1989 to 2015.

During the summing-up on Wednesday, Recorder of Winchester Judge Angela Morris noted that the alleged victims, who had been clients of Harris, expressed uncertainty about how to respond to the purported abuse.

Previously, Christine Agnew KC, representing the defense, claimed that the accusers had fabricated "full blown lies" against Harris, who maintains his innocence on all charges. The trial is ongoing.

The accusations include alleged abuse in locations such as Plymouth's Charles Cross Police Station cells, Plymouth Magistrates' Court, Harris car, and his office. Judge Morris highlighted that some accusers tolerated the behavior because of prior favors Harris had provided in his capacity as their solicitor.

Regarding one accuser who alleged rape, Judge Morris stated: "He said he was young and confused by the defendants actions, but the defendant was there to assist him. He said, 'I didnt know what to do about it.'

Another accuser reportedly said that he felt compelled to comply with Harris demands in the office to avoid legal consequences, according to the judge.

Judge Morris further mentioned that some victims believed that the legal system and law enforcement had favored Harris. One individual, allegedly abused in a police cell, expressed that it was a place where they should have felt safe but did not.

The trials summing-up will continue on Thursday before the jury begins deliberations.

Author: Riley Thompson