'A Spiteful Desire'

dublin | anti-capitalism | feature Wednesday October 08, 2003 10:58 by Steelie Bashment - RTS

May 6th 2002: RTS courtcases continue - newswire report

Yesterday (October 6th) at least 3 cases were heard arising out of the the 'Reclaim The Streets' demonstration of May 6th 2002...

Amazingly the people on trial were protestors, not Gardaí. Most people would probably be shocked to know that over a dozen protestors are still being pursued for public order offences on the day. These people, most of whom were beaten up by the police, have been forced to show up in court up to 10 times each over the last year and a half. Each time their case gets deferred for a few months, meaning more disruption, days off work and general hassle.

Considering the fact that, when questioned by the Garda Complaints Board inquiry, not a single policeman was able to remember the identity of a single officer present, we should ask how the hell they can continue these prosecutions which are all based on Garda testimony? The reason can only be a spiteful desire to harrass the people whom they had already assaulted.

Indymedia feature on May 6th
Reclaim The Streets Dublin

Yesterday in court was more of the same. Counsel for the defence made several determined attempts to get the charges struck out and it even appeared as if the judge was considering it. However, the judge decided to defer the cases until February 3rd of 2004. How long can this go on?