The following info was published on the Freedom Press website today, having been sourced from the Met Police. Legal support from GBC and LDMG have been at courts and on the phone getting hold of defendants. There are likely to be more arrests and more people charged. Equally, many charges may be dropped, and even when they aren’t and the case goes to court, many people will be found not guilty.
If you are arrested, and charged, don’t panic and don’t be scared. The police want you to be frightened and afraid, they want you to stop protesting and fighting. Don’t let them win – there is plenty of support available, make use of it.
Summary of arrests from March 26th
147 people charged with offences:
138 people charged with aggravated trespass in connection with the incident at Fortnum & Mason. Due to appear on various dates at City of Westminster Magistrates’ Court (first being 9th May)
3 people charged with criminal damage
2 people charged with assaulting a police officer
1 person charged with S4 Public Order Act (threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour)
1 person charged with being drunk and disorderly
In custody:
a 17 year old male accused of possession of an offensive weapon in a public place; and going equipped for criminal damage (he appeared in youth court on the 28th March)
a male appeared in court on 28th March charged with violent disorder (S2 Public Order Act) and assault on police
Not yet charged:
47 people are bailed to return to police stations during April pending further inquiries. Seven of those are connected with Fortnum and Mason, 40 in connection with other incidents
Other:
3 people were cautioned for criminal damage
2 people released with no further action
Were you arrested at the Anti Cuts demonstration on March 26th?
Please ring Green and Black Cross on 079 4654 1511 so they can advise you as to your next steps.
Defendants’ meeting: Saturday 2nd April at 2pm. University of London Student Union, Malet Street, WC1E 7HY