Public nuisance - Guilty: 26/07/21

Outcome
Court date

Court:

Southwark Crown Court

Hearing date:

26 – 28 July 2021, sentencing 24th September 2021

Bench (DJ or JPs)

Judge Perrins and jury

Charged with:

Public nuisance

Represented by:

Self-representing – trial. Sentencing represented by Tim Maloney, QC. Solicitor Raj Chada, Hodge Jones Allen.

Please outline key points in prosecution and defense cases.

Trial: Prosecution: carrying out an act not warranted by law; caused significant inconvenience to passengers; interfered with the publics right to free movement / travel; put the lives and safety of JB and others – e.g. police and fire crew in danger.

 

 

Defence: flying isn’t a right it’s a privilege; travel around the airport was already disrupted by other protests; the CPS and witnesses exaggerated the case.

 

Sentencing: CPS: quoted R, B, L case. Anti-fracking protest on roof of lorry for 2 – 3 days. Said that defendant’ case was not comparable. On plane for 1 hour. Asked for judge to consider financial penalty or community order.

Defence: did not endanger others and no significant damage. Requested fine or community order.

Was defense evidence submitted in writing?

Yes

Did defense witness(es) give evidence in person? Were they cross-examined?

Yes. Defendant gave evidence in person. One defence witness was called and gave evidence by video. CPS had no questions for her.

What was the verdict?

Guilty

What was the sentence?

12m custodial, to serve a min of 6m

What costs were awarded?

£3500 court costs, plus victim surcharge

Please add anything else relevant.

Pre-sentence report to be produced by 8 Sept. Case adjourned for sentencing until 10th September 2021 10am Southwark CC. Although against court procedure, the Judge allowed me to read quotes on behalf of defendant at his request.

Triaal