The British Court of Appeal’s verdict today on the toppling of Colston’s statue will restrict peaceful protesters’ ability to defend their actions in court, leading criminal barristers warn.
In an appeal triggered by home secretary Suella Braverman in her previous role as attorney general, Lord Chief Justice Lord Burnett ruled against protesters’ ability to use human rights defences when they have been charged with criminal damage.
The judge described the toppling of Colston’s statue in protest against racism as a “violent” act, despite the protesters’ intentions. Rhian Graham, Milo Ponsford, Sage Willoughby and Jake Skuse – referred to as the ‘Colston Four’ – were involved in pulling down the likeness of Colston, who was responsible for shipping more people to be used as slaves than any other trader. All four were acquitted of causing criminal damage in January.
