Jury Discharged in Rape Trial Citing ‘Technical Reasons’

A judge has dismissed the jury in a rape trial that was anticipated to last two months and involves a body piercer, citing “technical reasons”. Paul Saunders, an Ipswich resident, has been on trial since October 14, facing charges of three counts of rape and seven counts of sexual assault. The 51-year-old, who operates Scarz&Barz located on Eagle Street, refutes these allegations, which purportedly concern nine women and occurred between 2012 and 2020. Judge Martyn Levett informed Ipswich Crown Court that the proceedings would be rescheduled for February 28, stating: “I regret to say I must discharge the jury.” The proceedings were originally slated to conclude by mid-December. Due to legal restrictions, the BBC is unable to disclose the specific reasons for the jury’s dismissal, though Judge Levett conceded that the trial’s progression had been “very slow indeed”. He further commented: “The case has not run as smoothly as it otherwise should have or I might expect.” The judge emphasized: “There has to be a fair trial for everyone and there has to be a fair trial for Mr Saunders.” He indicated that the case was being rescheduled to allow him to be “brought up to speed”. Mr. Saunders was granted unconditional bail pending his subsequent court appearance.