Cotswold Geotechnical Holdings, is the first prosecution under the Act and is charged with the unlawful killing of a young geologist by gross negligence.

Mr. Peter Eaton, Director of Cotswold Geotechnical Holdings, is was the first prosecution under the Act and is charged with the unlawful killing of a young geologist by gross negligence. Mr Peter Eaton, first appeared at Stroud magistrates court in June 2009 to face manslaughter charges both on behalf of the company and as an individual.

Cotswold Geotechnical Holdings Ltd on 17 February 2011 were found guilty and fined £385,000 following a two week trial.  The judge, in handing down the sentence, confirmed Cotswold Geotechnical Holdings Ltd could pay the fine over 10-year period, paying a £38,500 every year of that period. The company does not have to pay any costs.

In consideration of the fine of £385,000; in 2008 Cotswold Geotechnical Holdings employed eight people and had a turnover of £333,000.

Cotswold Geotechnical Holdings appealed against the Judge’s decision however this was turned down in May 2011 with the Judge in the Court of Appeal upholding the original fine.