A man who falsely portrayed himself as a barrister during an immigration tribunal in London has been sentenced after his deception was uncovered by court staff.
Cecil Decker, aged 39, assumed the identity of a real lawyer, Andrew Otchie, during proceedings at an appeals tribunal in London. His actions were brought to light when court officials noticed discrepancies, including the notable difference in racial appearance between Decker and the genuine Mr. Otchie, according to statements presented by the prosecution.
During the hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, Decker, a resident of south London, pleaded guilty to charges of impersonating a barrister. As a consequence, he received a suspended 26-week prison term.
Police involvement ensued following revelations from Andrew Otchie himself, who disclosed receiving inquiries regarding cases he had no knowledge of, indicating a prolonged period of deception, as outlined by prosecution barrister Rachel Darlington.
In his defense, Decker’s legal representative, David Freedman, argued that there was no financial gain associated with his client’s actions, attributing them to “a stupid, misguided attempt to assist somebody.” Freedman highlighted Decker’s background, noting his familial connection to the legal profession in Sierra Leone, where his father practiced law.
Acknowledging the absence of direct financial motivation, Judge Anthony Woodcock nonetheless emphasized the seriousness of Decker’s offense. Woodcock noted the extent to which the deception was perpetrated, highlighting the potential ramifications for the client involved in the immigration matter and the inconvenience caused to the genuine barrister.
Woodcock concluded that while Decker’s actions might have been driven by a degree of altruism, they nevertheless constituted a significant breach of legal integrity and trust, impacting both the court proceedings and the individual affected by the impersonation.
