On 1 June, 2016, I was arrested in Parliament Square for (allegedly) obstructing the public highway during a protest about the CPS / police not prosecuting the criminals who carry out Male Genital Mutilation on male minors, a crime under the Offences Against the Person Act 1861. My thanks to Ewan Jones and Mike P for the video (14:52) they recorded in Parliament Square and, earlier in the day, outside the Home Office (the department to which the police report).
The CPS decided to prosecute me for obstructing the highway, and despite a very solid defence (thanks to our legal advisor, Ian) I was convicted by a female judge at Hammersmith Magistrates’ Court. I appealed to Isleworth Crown Court, where a male judge declined to overturn the conviction. So I appealed to the High Court, based in The Strand, London.
My appeal will be heard by two judges on 10 July, 2018 – 10 days before the start of the conference. A few supporters have said they’ll join me in support, It would be good to have more, with people holding placards, handing out leaflets etc. I shall learn the court number and the time of the hearing at 14:30 on Monday. Please contact me ([email protected]) if you think you’ll be able to join us. Thanks.
