Chris Jeyes represents well-known “naked carpenter” Robert Jenner charged with attempted murder of a police officer

Representation in the Trial of Robert Jenner

Drystone member Chris Jeyes recently acted for well-known “naked carpenter” Robert Jenner in his trial at Maidstone Crown Court for the attempted murder of a police officer in June 2023.

Case Background

The background to the case is that the police wanted to arrest Mr. Jenner for an alleged offence of exposure, but he barricaded himself into his flat. When the police forced entry (destroying his door in the process) and deployed PAVA spray, Mr. Jenner had retreated to his kitchen. As the lead officer entered the kitchen, Mr. Jenner attacked the head and neck of the officer with a pair of kitchen scissors, causing 23 injuries, including one that possibly passed completely through the officer’s wrist, and another slash wound to his head which exposed the skull.

Legal Representation and Preparation

Mr Jenner had changed solicitors in the course of the case and was no longer engaging with his legal team or previous counsel. Chris Jeyes of Drystone Chambers, instructed by Richard Graham & Co, was brought in because of his experience of naturist cases. 

Chris successfully prevented an application by the Crown to try the case in Mr. Jenner’s absence in October 2024, pending further information being sought and instructions taken. By December 2024, sufficient information was available for there to be a fair trial. Mr. Jenner maintained his absence from the proceedings but gave instructions via regular video conferences.

Court Proceedings and Defence

In the course of the trial, Chris cross-examined the officers in relation to the legality of their actions and elicited important information from the expert pathologist who dealt with the injuries caused.

In spite of the absence of the defendant, it was possible to establish the basis for a “householder defence” arising from the inference that Mr. Jenner may have believed it was necessary to defend himself, and may have believed that the officers were unlawfully on the premises.

Verdict and Commendation

The case was both legally and factually complex, and the jury retired for over five hours before returning a guilty verdict by a majority.

At the end of the case, the trial Judge commended Chris for the great skill with which he had defended this difficult case.

Robert Jenner will be sentenced early in 2025.

Press coverage
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About the Barrister

Chris Jeyes was called to the bar in 2005 and specialises in serious crime and fraud. He brings particular expertise and an eye for detail in paper heavy and legally complex cases, and those requiring legal argument.

To instruct Chris, contact his clerks Ryan Bartlett, Regan Barnes or Amie Harris on 020 7404 1881.