Bexhill-on-Sea couple"s 11-year dispute with neighbor ends in dropped charges

Nigel and Sheila Jacklin, a couple from Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex, faced an 11-year dispute with their neighbor, Dr. Stephane Duckett, which culminated in harassment charges against them. The couple claimed that their actions, including chanting and finger-pointing, were part of Mrs. Jacklin's Hindu prayer routine. Despite being charged with harassment and assault, the Jacklins maintained their innocence, asserting that they were the ones being harassed. They reported their neighbors for filming Mrs. Jacklin while she prayed, which they viewed as an infringement on their rights. The legal battles took a toll on the couple, who spent significant amounts on legal fees and faced multiple police investigations, all of which resulted in no action against them. Mr. Jacklin expressed frustration over the perceived abuse of police power, stating that they had been investigated numerous times without any evidence of wrongdoing. The couple's claims of being assaulted were also dismissed, as the evidence they requested was not produced. In a recent court appearance, all charges against the Jacklins were dropped, leading to feelings of relief and anger over the prolonged ordeal. Mr. Jacklin, who is also a local councillor, highlighted the impact of the situation on their lives and his decision to run for office, motivated by the perceived injustice they faced. The Sussex Police confirmed that they conducted a thorough investigation into the allegations but ultimately did not pursue the case further after the Crown Prosecution Service declined to proceed with the charges. The Jacklins' experience raises questions about the effectiveness of legal protections in neighbor disputes and the role of law enforcement in such matters.