A Novel Approach To Historical Sex Abuse Cases...

[sandyRoe]

The brother of Dana (of 'All kinds of everything' fame) stands accused of a number of indecent assault charges against children dating back to the 1970s. He is said to have phoned the father of one of his alleged victims and said God had forgiven him and he should also, a Harrow court heard.
Two questions spring to mind. How does he know God has forgiven him and could this be used successfully as mitigation by others accused of similar crimes?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-28270216

[Peter Pedant]

Inko - erm yes a rule is not a law
the wiki says that various legal systems recognise this
I am pretty sure ours doesnt

In Mr WHicher's case if you recollect the murderess has confessed to an Anglican priest, and HE refuses to testify. IN real life the ArchB of C writes to the Times and reminds the readership that there are 7 sacraments in the Anglican Church of which auricular confession is one.

see also http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constance_Kent

[anneasquith]

really canary...............'' they are all at it '' and you know this how ?

[inksplotter]

Do you mean the book The Suspicions of Mr Whicher, Peter? That's a report on an actual case.

[jennyjoan]

Well, John got off the charges. A feud over business matters. I do believe that.

Next, Dana has been given a thump from elder sister - again over business matters. Royalties etc.

Does one not think - everybody gets challenged every day - right up to the last day. I truly think that anyway.

[sandyRoe]

Yes, indeed. He's cleared of all charges and left the court without the slightest of blemishes on his character.