Prayer and Justice Converge in Oakham, High Court Judge Dame Amanda Jane Tipples, DBE, KC, Presides Over Cases After County Service at Oakham Castle.

It was a morning that married civic duty and the rule of law in Rutland, as All Saints Church in Oakham and the historic Oakham Castle Court played host to a poignant Justice Service followed by formal court proceedings. The court sits every two years.

High Court Judge, Dame Amanda Jane Tipples, DBE, KC

The day began with a solemn procession of the Leicestershire and Rutland Justice Service from Oakham Castle to All Saints Church for the Justice Service for the County of Rutland. The service was attended by notable dignitaries, including High Court Judge, Dame Amanda Jane Tipples, DBE, KC, who was present alongside The High Sheriff of Rutland, Colonel (retired) Richard Chesterfield. Oakham Mayor Chris Nix. 

The service itself was a rich blend of spiritual and musical offerings. The officiating clergy included The Venerable John R Ellis CB RAF (Retired), Chaplain to the High Sheriff, The Rev Canon Jane Baxter, Rural Dean, and The Rev Canon Tim Alban Jones MBE, Vice Dean of Peterborough Cathedral.

Attendees were treated to music from organist Peter Davis, the striking sound of trumpeters Steven Walton and John Ellwood, and the combined voices of The Rutland Youth Choirs and the All Saint's Church Choir. The atmosphere was further enhanced by the traditional sounds of Piper Iain Hildreth.

Following the service, Judge Tipples presided over two cases that had been transferred from Leicestershire Crown Court, although neither defendant was present for the proceedings.

Case One: Bail Application for Declan Guess

The first case was a bail application for Declan Guess, a 24-year-old man charged with Stalking, and being in possession and distribution of indecent images of children (Cat. A, B and C). Mr. Guess is currently held on remand, having breached his anti-stalking order on September 24th of this year.

Mr. Guess’s family offered a £3,000 assurance in return for bail, with the initial plan being for him to reside at his grandmother's home. However, the court was informed just before the hearing that this accommodation may be unsuitable, as a child lives at the address.

The prosecution strongly opposed bail, citing fears that Mr. Guess, who contests the charges, would interfere with witnesses if released. The court also heard that Mr. Guess is currently being detained at a Leicester Hospital due to an illness that prevents him from eating and drinking, requiring him to be fed by straw.

The Judge ultimately adjourned the bail application to Leicester Crown Court on November 10th. This will allow Mr. Guess to resubmit his application at his pre-trial hearing and provides time for the prosecution to check the suitability of any proposed accommodation should bail be granted.

Case Two: Setting an Arraignment Date for Dominic Roberts

The second case involved setting an arraignment date for Dominic Roberts, who is charged with attempted aggravated burglary with knives and possession of a knife.

The prosecution’s psychiatrist had previously found Mr. Roberts fit to plead at Crown Court. However, the defence team applied for a second psychiatric report. The Judge ordered that Mr. Roberts would appear at Leicester Crown Court for arraignment on Friday, November 14th, 2025. This date was set to ensure there was sufficient time for the second psychiatric report to be produced.

Oakham and Rutland News extended thanks to Judge Amanda Tipples for agreeing to pose for photographs after the completion of the hearings.

Visiting High Sheriffs 

Rupert Mathews Police and Crime Commissioner 

for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland

High Sheriff of Rutland (left) Judge, Lord Lieutenant of Rutland 

and visiting High Sheriff.