Juries are used in criminal trials to determine an individual's guilt or innocence. Juries can be influenced by factors other than the evidence presented.
On 24th October 2024 at a Crown Court in England, two separate trials were proceeding.
The first trial was of a 19-year-old male physics student, described as quiet, studious, and socially withdrawn.
The other trial was of a 42-year-old female motorcycle mechanic with extensive tattoos, known for her vocal union activism.
They have both been accused of committing commercial arson by deliberately setting fire to a warehouse.
Assess how characteristics of these defendants may affect the judgements of the juries during these two criminal trials. You must make reference to the context in your answer.
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