…By Henry George for TDPel Media.
Michael Broddle, a former Royal Marine, has confessed to planting a fake bomb outside the chambers of a senior barrister, stating that he would do anything to obtain cash.
Broddle acknowledged that he placed two devices around Gray’s Inn in London on September 14, 2021.
However, he denied having any issue with the alleged target, Andrew Sutcliffe KC, claiming that he was acting under instruction from a “third party.”
Prosecution Alleges Businessman’s Involvement in Campaign Against Barrister
According to the prosecution, businessman Jonathan Nuttall orchestrated a campaign against Andrew Sutcliffe and his colleague Anne Jeavons, who represented the National Crime Agency in a long-standing financial dispute.
The prosecution claims that Nuttall enlisted his driver, Michael Sode, to act as a middleman in collaborating with Broddle, who then involved his sons Charlie and Joshua in the plot.
Fake Bomb Placed for Maximum Alarm and Professional Embarrassment
Jurors heard that one of the devices found at Gray’s Inn was potentially viable, while the other, left outside Mr. Sutcliffe’s chambers, emitted smoke to cause maximum alarm.
The device was accompanied by a note addressed to “Sooty,” Mr. Sutcliffe’s former Army nickname, containing false allegations aimed at causing professional embarrassment.
Broddle’s Testimony and Financial Difficulties
During his trial at the Old Bailey, Michael Broddle testified that he believed he was carrying out a security test as instructed.
He hoped that the job would lead to a security contract at Gray’s Inn.
He was directed to conduct a “penetrative test” similar to his Marine training using a fake bomb and to write a note to Mr. Sutcliffe.
Broddle admitted to financial difficulties at the time and expressed willingness to do anything to obtain cash.
Denials and Charges
Jonathan Nuttall, Michael Sode, Charlie Broddle, and Joshua Broddle, all deny charges of conspiring with Michael Broddle to place an article with intent.
Charlie Broddle also denies possession of an explosive substance in relation to one of the devices.
Additionally, Michael Broddle, Nuttall, Sode, Joshua Broddle, and George Gray deny conspiring to transfer criminal property.
Nuttall faces six charges, and Sode faces two charges of failure to comply with a notice.
The trial at the Old Bailey is ongoing.