Palestine Action Activists Acquitted of Violent Disorder in UK Court

Three activists associated with Palestine Action have been acquitted of violent disorder charges related to a break-in at an Elbit Systems site near Bristol.

At Woolwich Crown Court on Monday, the prosecution offered no evidence on the violent disorder charge, leading Mr Justice Johnson to formally acquit Charlotte Head, Samuel Corner, and Leona Kamio of this count.

The six defendants, including Fatema Zainab Rajwani, Zoe Rogers, and Jordan Devlin, continue to face charges of criminal damage.

Additionally, Samuel Corner faces a further charge of grievous bodily harm with intent against police officer Kate Evans.

A jury has been sworn in for the ongoing trial, with the prosecution expected to open its case later in the week.

The judge instructed jurors to focus solely on the evidence and to disregard any personal views on Palestine Action's designation as a terrorist organisation or opinions on Israeli military operations in Gaza.

Mr Justice Johnson emphasized the importance of impartiality, stating that jurors should not be distracted by the legal battle over Palestine Action's proscription or by any moral justifications they might perceive.

Supporters of the defendants gathered outside the court with signs and Palestinian flags during the hearing, but jurors were instructed to ignore any external protests.

This case remains significant amid ongoing legal and political controversies surrounding Palestine Action.

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