The title is too long
"that he decided to cop a plea rather than contest his case so as to avoid a potential nightmare of continuous subsequent trials even if he was acquitted of this particular offence."
This is a sign of a system that is in dire need of reform. The decision to plead guilty should not be taken because the system is going to repeatedly kick you between the legs until you do. Otherwise, you’re being punished for being not guilty.
(I know he plead guilt and says he did it but I am trying to make a more general point).