Jury Acquits Ex-Soldier in Just 17 Minutes After Controversial Prosecution
In a decisive victory for free speech, former Royal Marine Jamie Michael has been cleared of all charges in a case that sparked widespread concern over legal overreach.
Michael, who faced prosecution for a Facebook video he posted about child killer Axel Rudakubana, was acquitted by a Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court jury in just 17 minutes—a strikingly swift verdict that underscored the weakness of the case against him.
Legal Experts and Free Speech Advocates Condemn ‘Grotesque Overreach’
Michael’s case quickly became a rallying cry for free speech defenders, with legal experts and civil rights groups questioning why the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) pursued charges against him in the first place.
His defence, led by solicitor Luke Gittos and barrister Adam King, argued that Michael had done nothing illegal—his video criticized Rudakubana and encouraged lawful protest, a right enshrined in British law. Despite their appeals, prosecutors refused to drop the case.
The Free Speech Union (FSU), which provided financial and legal support, called the prosecution “deeply disturbing” and “a blatant attack on free expression.”
Public Reaction: ‘This Trial Should Never Have Happened’
Michael’s supporters celebrated the acquittal but expressed anger that he had been put through the ordeal in the first place.
“The fact that this even went to trial is outrageous,” said an FSU spokesperson. “Jamie was dragged through the courts simply for expressing his views on a public matter.”
Social media users also voiced outrage, with many calling for greater scrutiny of prosecutions that threaten free speech.
Michael Speaks Out: ‘I Should Never Have Been Here’
Following his acquittal, Michael spoke outside the courthouse, thanking his legal team and supporters:
“I should never have been here in the first place. This was a politically motivated prosecution, and today’s verdict proves it. Free speech is under attack, and we have to stand up for it.”
The Future of Free Speech in the UK
Michael’s case is the latest in a series of legal battles over free expression, raising concerns about growing censorship and the use of criminal law to silence speech.
The Free Speech Union has called for an official review into the CPS’s handling of the case, urging reforms to prevent future prosecutions of this nature.
While Michael’s victory is a relief, free speech advocates warn that similar cases could arise unless legal protections are strengthened.
