11 Activists Snagged for Protest Outside Southwark Crown Court
Eleven protesters were hauled away on suspicion of contempt of court after staging a demonstration right outside Southwark Crown Court in London. The arrests came early Tuesday, following strict orders from the judge presiding over the case.
Placards Slam Jury Restrictions
The group stood firm on the pavement at English Grounds, waving signs that read, “Jurors deserve to hear the whole truth” and “Jurors have an absolute right to acquit a defendant according to their conscience.” Their protest was all about blasting the limits placed on jurors in court proceedings.
Meet the Arrested – From 37 to 82
The arrested included Katharine Amberley, 56; Terrance McGinty, 76; Anne Richards, 66; Elizabeth Simpson, 73; Brian Barker, 60; Jane Leggett, 73; Yvonne Hayward (age undisclosed); plus Paul Stephen, 59; Dr. Clive Dolphin, 55; Ellie Litten, 37; and Dr. Neil Stevenson, 82. All appeared later that afternoon at Southwark Crown Court.
Judge Hits Back with Bail and a Warning
At the hearing, the judge slapped conditions on their bail: none are allowed near Southwark Crown Court until their September 27 contempt trial. The judge didn’t mince words, saying, “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 slammed the protestors for gathering “mob-handed” outside the court, hinting at the serious nature of the offence.
Police Confirm: Protest Could Influence Jury
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: “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.”
This standoff spotlights the clash between free speech and keeping trials fair. The September hearing will decide whether the activists’ actions crossed the line and what penalties they’ll face.
