Six individuals associated with Palestine Action were acquitted on February 4th, bringing an end to an 11-week trial and over 18 months of imprisonment for some. One of those released, Zoe Rogers, described her 16-month ordeal in custody and the struggle for freedom to The Fresh Arab.
Filton 24 Case Details
Rogers and 18 others, collectively known as the Filton 24, were initially arrested following an incident where damage exceeding £1 million occurred at an Elbit Systems facility in the UK. The six faced charges of aggravated burglary, violent disorder, and criminal damage, all of which they denied. After 36 hours of deliberation, the jury cleared all six of the aggravated burglary charges.
The jury could not reach a verdict on the charges of criminal damage, and all but one of the six were granted bail. Rogers stated, “I honestly just nodded along to the verdicts…They were what I was expecting – to be convicted of anything would have been an injustice.” She further commented on the length of time spent in custody, stating, “I think it’s very telling that judges and politicians…chose to maintain us in prison for 18 months without trial and take away our human rights, and then the moment ordinary people are given any say in what happens to us, we were set free.”
The remaining 18 of the Filton 24 were also cleared of the aggravated burglary charge, and were granted conditional bail. Applications relating to a further eight defendants are expected to be heard.
Rogers is currently on bail and faces a retrial on charges of criminal damage and violent disorder, scheduled for February 16, 2027. She expressed confidence in the group’s ability to succeed in the retrial.
Background and Previous Incidents
The proscription of Palestine Action followed a separate incident in June at RAF Brize Norton, where activists allegedly caused approximately £7 million in damage to aircraft linked to military supplies to Israel. Following this incident, the activists were charged the following month. Supporters of the group have criticised the proscription, and arrests have occurred during protests in support of the organisation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges were the six activists initially facing?
The six activists were initially facing charges of aggravated burglary, violent disorder, and criminal damage.
What was the outcome of the aggravated burglary charges?
The jury cleared all six activists of the charges of aggravated burglary.
Will all of the Filton 24 face further legal proceedings?
Six of the Filton 24 have been acquitted of all charges. The remaining 18 were cleared of aggravated burglary but face potential proceedings related to other charges. A retrial is scheduled for some on charges of criminal damage and violent disorder.
As the legal process continues for some involved, what role will public opinion and ongoing demonstrations play in shaping the future of this case?
