Palace Action Group Acquitted of Violent Disorder Charges

Three members of the Palestine Action group have been cleared of violent disorder allegations in a UK court. Charlotte Head, 29, Samuel Corner, 23, and Leona Kamio, 30, were linked to a break-in at an Elbit Systems facility near Bristol. The verdict was delivered at Woolwich Crown Court on Monday, following a legal proceeding where the Crown Prosecution Service provided no proof to support the charge of violent disorder.

Remaining Charges and Additional Allegations

The trio still faces criminal damage charges alongside Fatema Zainab Rajwani, 21, Zoe Rogers, 22, and Jordan Devlin, 31. Samuel Corner also has a separate count of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, specifically involving police officer Kate Evans. Mr Justice Johnson officially dismissed the violent disorder accusations, stating:

“I will direct not guilty verdicts in respect of those three defendants on that count.”

The trial continues for the remaining offenses, with the prosecution planning to present its case on Wednesday.

Juror Instructions to Focus on Evidence

Mr Justice Johnson advised jurors to disregard external influences, including the legal dispute over Palestine Action’s designation as a terrorist organisation. He emphasized:

“You will appreciate it is vitally important that you judge the case only on the evidence, not on the basis of what the defendants, or you, the home secretary, the government or anyone else thinks about Palestine Action and events in the Middle East.”

The judge added that jurors should set aside personal opinions about the Gaza conflict, stating:

“They are completely irrelevant to your job in this case.”

Jurors were instructed to ignore demonstrations outside the courtroom, where a small group of supporters displayed signs and Palestinian flags during the proceedings. The case remains ongoing as the prosecution prepares to begin its arguments. Follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X and Instagram. Share story ideas via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630.