Heading to the @London_AFA #LondonIsAntifascist #AntifascismIsInternational demo this evening? Here’s our top tips to remember - know your rights & share these key messages! (THREAD)
@London_AFA 1. NO COMMENT! You’re usually not required to answer police questions, so don’t - say ‘no comment’. This includes ‘friendly chats’, on the streets, in a police van & during interview. PLOs (officers in blue bibs) are trained intelligence gatherers - remember ‘NO COMMENT’
@London_AFA 2. NO PERSONAL DETAILS! You never need to give personal details when you’re being stop & searched so don’t. You usually don’t need to give personal details to police
Exceptions:
- If you’re arrested many people choose to give their name, address, nationality & date of birth (no more than this) when they get to the custody desk (not before) as not giving this can delay release
- If you’re arrested many people choose to give their name, address, nationality & date of birth (no more than this) when they get to the custody desk (not before) as not giving this can delay release
- If you’re arrested & police demand your nationality you must give it (Policing & Crime Act 2017). Ask ‘UNDER WHAT POWER?’. This only applies after arrest
3. UNDER WHAT POWER? Police sometimes rely on protesters not knowing the law. If police tell you to do something make sure you challenge them to act lawfully by asking ‘AM I LEGALLY OBLIGED TO?’ & ‘UNDER WHAT POWER?’
4. NO DUTY SOLICITOR! If you’re arrested never take the duty solicitor - they may not know anything about protest & give bad advice. Instead we recommend asking for ITN @ITNSolicitors 020 3909 8100 or HJA @hodgejonesallen 0808 274 8226
5. NO CAUTION! A caution is an admission of guilt for an offence, without the police having to show evidence. Doesn’t sound much but stays on your record & can impact employment. Best not to accept one, unless a trusted solicitor has specifically advised you to
Legal Observers from ILON will be out tonight - look out for them in numbered orange bibs & pick up a bustcard
Got legal questions, witness an arrest or police violence or get arrested yourself? Make sure to call the Protest Support Line for tips & support at 07946 541 511 (write this number on the top of your arm) (fash need not call x)
Find all our guides at greenandblackcross.org
