Man Brings Ammonia to Court for Protection in Assault Trial
A witness in an assault trial shocked security staff at Swansea Crown Court when he arrived with a Jif Lemon squeezy bottle containing ammonia. The man, Barry Khalil, claimed he brought the corrosive substance for his own protection. Khalil was there to testify against three men accused of assaulting him, who he described as well-known figures in the criminal fraternity in Swansea.
The court heard that Khalil, who has a history of weapon-related offenses, including possession of a wooden cosh, a knife, a sword, and firearms, had been caught previously with a Jif bottle containing ammonia. He expressed fear of going to prison and coming into contact with his previous attackers.
On May 23, as Khalil was being searched by security staff at the court building, he revealed the Jif bottle. He eventually admitted that it contained stuff and ammonia and was intended for his personal protection. The security staff confiscated the bottle and immediately reported the incident to a police officer on site.
As a result of Khalil’s actions, the trial against the men who allegedly assaulted him couldn’t proceed that day. However, the following day, all three defendants pleaded guilty to robbery, and each received a 32-month jail sentence.
Subsequent forensic analysis of the Jif bottle confirmed that it contained an ammonia solution. Experts warned that inhaling the liquid could cause breathing difficulties, while contact with the eyes could result in corneal burns, and contact with the skin could lead to blistering.
Barry Ali Khalil, who resides on Llangyfelach Road, Brynhyfryd, Swansea, had previously pleaded guilty to possessing a corrosive substance in a public place. His previous criminal record comprises 31 convictions, including possession of various weapons, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, affray, supplying Class A drugs, and possessing a Jif bottle containing ammonia.
During Khalil’s sentencing, his barrister, John Stokes, acknowledged the foolishness of his client’s actions but emphasized the terrifying nature of the assault Khalil had endured. Stokes highlighted Khalil’s vulnerability and fear while testifying against his attackers, citing his struggles with mental health and perceived lack of support from the police. Despite these challenges, Khalil demonstrated determination by attending court as a witness. Stokes also expressed Khalil’s concerns about potentially encountering his assailants in prison.
Given Khalil’s prior convictions and the pre-sentence report’s recommendation against a community-based sentence, Judge Christopher Vosper KC handed him a six-month prison sentence. With a one-third reduction for his guilty plea, Khalil will serve half of his sentence in custody before being released on license to complete the remainder in the community. The judge acknowledged the undesirability of Khalil encountering his attackers while in prison and urged the prison authorities to address this concern.
The incident at Swansea Crown Court serves as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by the presence of corrosive substances in public places and the need for stringent security measures. It also raises questions about the support and protection provided to witnesses testifying against individuals with criminal connections. The court system plays a vital role in ensuring justice is served, but it must also prioritize the safety and well-being of those involved in legal proceedings.
