‘King of Everland’ back in court to answer charges

He was appearing in court to answer three charges under the Land Planning and Development (Guernsey) Law and gave his name as Steve Ogier and his address as Everland Border, Ruette du Frocq, Castel.

It is alleged that between 26 July and 28 August last year, he failed to take the steps required by compliance notices that were served on him.

They were for failing to return the land where he lives to its former levels, removing vehicles from the land to leave only a maximum of one, and permanently removing a box trailer and trailer caravan from the site.

When the allegations were put to Mr Ogier, 50, he refused to entered a plea and said he had no case to answer.

Judge Graeme McKerrell said that on that basis, he would enter not guilty pleas on Mr Ogier’s behalf.

Mr Ogier said he could not do that as he had not given the judge power of attorney, but Judge McKerrell said he did not have to have it and was acting within his powers.

The defendant said the whole of the justice system was being used as a political weapon against him.

His case was of massive constitutional importance to every single person in Guernsey. He had been brought to court against his will and his arrest had been unlawful.

He drew the court’s attention to what he said were the 21 previous hearings relating to his case and said he demanded a judicial review.

He had not come to court to be tried but to seek justice for himself. He was a victim of a corrupt justice system that was being used in a criminal way against himself, an innocent man.

He told of how in 2018 he had claimed independence and ownership of his land.

Judge McKerrell said it was his understanding that the Royal Court had already rejected his claims in that respect.

Mr Ogier said he had told the court then that its decision was void.

Judge McKerrell asked Mr Ogier if he had appealed that decision but the defendant said it would have been a waste of time. He wanted to read a statement to the court, which he said would probably take about 15 to 20 minutes.

Judge McKerrell said the defendant could not do that at this stage. The court was properly constituted and it had to make progress.

Not guilty pleas would not be entered on the defendant’s behalf but Judge McKerrell said he would ask the prosecution to proceed as if they had been.

Mr Ogier could then submit any evidence he wanted to in writing, including what he had planned to say, so the judge could read it prior to a review hearing which will take place in October.