JUSTICE FOR THE FALSELY ACCUSED: CHESHIRE POLICE SUCCESSFULLY PROSECUTE FALSE ACCUSER

By Michael Thompson, Founder of the Falsely Accused Network

The recent jailing of a woman who weaponised false allegations of domestic violence against an innocent man represents a watershed moment in the fight against malicious accusations and highlights the exemplary work of our police forces.

Jade Parker, 37, from Crewe, was sentenced to 30 months imprisonment at Chester Crown Court last week after pleading guilty to perverting the course of justice, harassment and stalking. Between December 2023 and February 2024, she made two fabricated allegations of assault against a man who was subsequently arrested on both occasions.

Chester Crown Court

As founder of the Falsely Accused Network, I have witnessed countless lives destroyed by false allegations. The meticulous investigative work by Cheshire Constabulary in this case deserves the highest praise. Their thorough enquiries revealed the complainant wasn't even in the same location as the accused when the alleged assaults occurred.

What's particularly commendable is how the police, whilst taking the initial allegations with appropriate seriousness, pursued evidence with rigorous impartiality. This balanced approach demonstrates the professionalism we should expect from our police services.

Sergeant Keith Graham's statement following the case perfectly encapsulates the ethical dilemma facing modern policing: how to robustly investigate domestic violence allegations whilst protecting the innocent from malicious claims. His acknowledgement that such false allegations are "unforgiveable" shows a deep understanding of the devastating impact they have on innocent individuals.

The victim in this case suffered profound disruption to his life, being deprived of his liberty and forced to install security cameras to protect himself from further false accusations. This represents the often-overlooked collateral damage of false allegations – the psychological toll, reputational harm, and financial cost borne by the falsely accused.

Cheshire Constabulary's handling of this case should serve as a blueprint for police forces nationwide. Too often, we see a hesitancy to pursue cases against false accusers for fear of deterring genuine victims from coming forward. This case demonstrates that supporting genuine victims and ensuring justice for the falsely accused are not mutually exclusive objectives.

The 30-month sentence sends a clear message that our justice system recognises the gravity of false allegations. For too long, those who make such claims have escaped with minimal consequences, whilst the accused face life-altering repercussions even when exonerated.

Our network supports hundreds of individuals fighting to rebuild their lives after false accusations. Each case like Parker's that results in proper justice gives hope to those still battling against the devastating impact of false claims.

Let this case serve as both a vindication of excellent police work and a warning to those who would abuse our legal system with malicious intent. The Falsely Accused Network will continue to advocate for balanced investigations that protect both genuine victims and the falsely accused, working alongside our dedicated police forces who, as demonstrated here, are committed to pursuing the truth wherever it leads.

Anyone falsely accused of domestic abuse can receive support at our website www.falselyaccusednetwork.co.uk or email support@falselyaccusednetwork.co.uk