Crown Prosecution Service drop case against protesters

This entry was posted on Wednesday, August 10th, 2011 at 6:09 pm

The decision by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to drop charges against the majority of protesters arrested following the Fortnum and Mason occupation during the Trade Union Congress (TUC) has raised a debate about what the legal position is on prosecuting protesters.

Criminal defence solicitors will no doubt be able to refer to that decision if future cases are brought to court. However the fact that the decision took so long for the CPS to make, has led some to speculate that the delay in decision came with ulterior motives. By leaving the threat of a criminal prosecution hanging over the head of so many protesters, many of whom had no criminal records, has led some legal experts to question whether the law is being used to discourage others from exercising their democratic rights.

Solicitors might therefore have their work cut out for them in defending those involved in protests, particularly those that have turned violent. The dropping of the charges came shortly after two other protesters were given significant sentences for their involvement in protests. Many say that violent protestors are receiving stricter punishment than those involved in drunken street brawls after a Saturday night out on the town, due to the high profile nature of their cases.

If you have been involved in a protest and believe you are a victim of wrongful arrest and detantion, contact David Phillips & Partners Solicitors on 0800 027 7870 or complete the Enquiry form.