A Palestine Action activist on trial for fracturing a police officer’s spine asserts he acted to protect a fellow demonstrator during a raid on an Elbit Systems UK factory. The court is currently reviewing evidence related to the alleged incident and the group’s underlying motivations.

Raid and Charges

Samuel Corner, 23, is on trial alongside five others facing charges of criminal damage following a raid on an Elbit Systems UK site near Bristol on August 6, 2024. Corner additionally faces a charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, accused of fracturing the spine of Police Sergeant Kate Evans with a sledgehammer.

Corner’s Testimony

Corner testified at Woolwich Crown Court that he reacted to what he perceived as an immediate threat to another protester’s safety. He stated he struck Sergeant Evans while she was attempting an arrest, vehemently denying that violence was pre-planned. He maintained the group’s intention was to disrupt factory operations and destroy weapons manufacturing equipment.

Sergeant Evans’ Account

The court heard testimony from Sergeant Evans, who described the intense pain and initial fear of paralysis following the impact. PC Peter Adams corroborated the severity of the blow, noting the ‘considerable amount of force’ used.

Circumstances of the Incident

Corner explained he was temporarily blinded and disoriented after being sprayed with an incapacitant by police. He also revealed that raid organizers had assured participants they would not encounter security guards, leaving them unprepared when security personnel intervened.

Activist’s Background

Corner stated his involvement with Palestine Action began in 2020 after viewing a video of their activities, understanding them to involve occupying arms factories and destroying weapons, but not violence towards individuals.

Prosecution’s Evidence

The prosecution presented evidence suggesting the group used a prison van as a ‘battering ram’ to breach the factory’s security. They allege extensive damage was caused to computers, drones, and other equipment using sledgehammers, crowbars, and paint.

Defense Argument and Closing Statements

The defense is attempting to establish that Corner’s actions were a spontaneous response to a perceived threat, not a deliberate act of violence. Corner repeatedly emphasized his lack of intent to cause serious harm, stating he ‘would never want to seriously hurt anyone.’ He maintained the raid’s primary goal was to ‘shut Elbit down’ and prevent the production of weapons he believed would be used for ‘death and devastation.’ The prosecution is challenging this narrative.

The case raises questions about the boundaries of protest, the use of force by activists, and individual responsibility within group actions. The trial’s outcome could significantly impact future protests targeting defense companies and the legal framework surrounding such demonstrations.