Judge who served security services imposes draconian ‘terror’ sentences on Filton peace activists

Judge Jeremy Johnson has imposed draconian sentences on four ‘Filton 25’ anti-genocide activists. Johnson had earlier refused to recuse himself from the case over his connections to the security services, Johnson also announced that he would impose ‘terrorism connection’ sentences despite none of the four ever being charged with terror offences, let alone convicted.

Palestine Action had not been proscribed as a terrorist group at the time when these activists were arrested.

Johnson first protected himself against appeals and censure by claiming he was allowing mitigating factors. He then also claimed that “aggravating factors” included upsetting employees of the Elbit death factory — and the fact that the activists wore red jumpsuits and used the word “intifada”.

The sentences imposed are:

• Two thirds of custodial sentences to be served in prison, then remainder term on parole.
• The four will be subject to terrorist notification requirements for fifteen years after release. These include having to report relationships, register phones and obtain permission to travel.
• Forty-five days’ reduction for being on curfew, except for Samuel Corner.
• All to be disqualified from driving, on release, for one year plus two thirds of the custodial terms imposed.

Filton 25 — Sentence terms

The defendants were not ordered to pay compensation unless police and Israel weapons firm Elbit bring private prosecutions.

Charlotte (Lottie) Head: 6 years (4 years + 320 days custodial)
Eleona (Ellie) Kamio: 6 years (4 years + 320 days custodial)
Fatema Zainab Rajwani: 5 years 8 months (4 years + 200 days custodial)
Samuel Corner: 8 years and 8 days

Corner was also convicted of grievous bodily harm as well as criminal damage, after intervening to protect one of the female actionists. All four have already been in prison for almost two years.

The UK justice system is subordinated to the interests of Israel and its enablers.

Featured image via FiltonActionists