On what would have been day 1 of trial, the Prosecution offered no evidence at Southwark Crown Court.

Maria Liddiard, Sarah-Jane Ewart and Meghan Curran were instructed for trial on behalf of the defendants who were accused of committing criminal damage and locking on as part of a protest with Palestine Action, prior to the group’s proscription in June 2025.

After service of skeleton arguments, two of the Crown’s witnesses withdrew their support for the prosecution. In the circumstances, and citing the defendants’ reliance on defences under section 5 Criminal Damage act 1971, the Crown considered there was no longer a realistic prospect of conviction.

Not Guilty verdicts were entered in respect of the Criminal Damage counts, and associated Locking On charges were discontinued.

Maria was instructed by Simon Natas at ITN Solicitors.

SJ was instructed by Isabelle Standen at Kelly’s Solicitors.

Meghan was instructed by Peter Baker, also at ITN Solicitors.

For more information, or to instruct Maria, SJ or Meghan, please contact our clerks at [email protected].