R v Valderamma-Vega [1985] Crim LR 220  Court of Appeal

The appellant had been convicted for importing drugs. He had done so because he had received threats of serious violence against him and his family if he did not comply. There were also threats to reveal his homosexual activities to his wife. He also received financial rewards for his action. The trial judge refused to allow the defence of duress to be put before the jury.

Held:

The appeal was allowed. Threats to reveal his homosexuality alone would be insufficient to find the defence but could be taken into account when coupled with threats of serious personal violence.

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