Paralegal Convicted of Witness Intimidation Barred from Legal Profession

A former paralegal has been disqualified from practising in the legal profession following a conviction for witness intimidation. Richard Melfi Wroe pleaded guilty to two counts of witness intimidation in February 2025.

The offences occurred between June and December 2024 while Melfi Wroe was employed as a paralegal at the Bolton office of the national law firm Keoghs. His employment at the firm lasted from May 2021 until October 2024.

Melfi Wroe's actions were aimed at obstructing, perverting, or interfering with a police investigation. Reports indicate that the victim of his intimidation was his former partner.

In May 2025, Melfi Wroe was sentenced to 27 months in prison and received a 20 year restraining order, which will remain in effect until May 2045.

The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) determined that Melfi Wroe's conduct breached three of its core principles. These principles relate to upholding the rule of law, ensuring the proper administration of justice, maintaining public trust and confidence in the solicitors' profession, and upholding integrity.

As a result of these findings, the SRA has imposed a section 99 disqualification order on Melfi Wroe. This order prohibits him from holding various roles within licensed bodies, including managerial or employee positions. Additionally, he has been ordered to pay costs amounting to £1,350.