A group of 11 activists were arrested on suspicion of contempt of court after staging a protest outside Southwark Crown Court in central London. The arrests took place on Tuesday morning following directions given by a judge.
The protesters were standing on the pavement at English Grounds, displaying placards with messages such as “Jurors deserve to hear the whole truth” and “Jurors have an absolute right to acquit a defendant according to their conscience.” The demonstration aimed to highlight the rights of jurors in court proceedings.
The arrested activists include Katharine Amberley, 56; Terrance McGinty, 76; Anne Richards, 66; Elizabeth Simpson, 73; Brian Barker, 60; Jane Leggett, 73; and Yvonne Hayward, whose age was not disclosed. Also arrested were Paul Stephen, 59; Dr. Clive Dolphin, 55; Ellie Litten, 37; and Dr. Neil Stevenson, 82. All appeared at Southwark Crown Court later in the afternoon.
During the court session, the judge released the individuals on bail with the condition that they do not come near Southwark Crown Court until their contempt proceedings hearing, scheduled for September 27. The judge emphasized the seriousness of the offense, stating, “I hope that the time you’ve spent in detention in the precincts of the court is a salutary reminder that the court’s proceedings are not to be trifled with.” He further remarked that the group had assembled “mob-handed” outside the court.
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson confirmed the arrests, stating, “Officers were given directions by a judge to arrest 11 activists on suspicion of contempt of court. The activists were holding placards outside Southwark Crown Court, which the judge determined could be interpreted as influencing a jury.”
The incident underscores the tension between freedom of expression and the integrity of judicial proceedings, highlighting the delicate balance courts must maintain to ensure fair trials. The upcoming hearing will determine whether the activists’ actions constitute contempt of court and what consequences they may face.
