Pro-Palestinian demonstrators staged a protest outside Sir Keir Starmer’s home, which led to his wife being effectively forced out of her own home. Three protesters, Leonorah Ward, Daniel Formentin, and Zosia Lewis, hung a banner reading “Starmer stop the killing” and placed children’s shoes to represent the casualties in Gaza.
After a trial, the protesters were found guilty of an offence and given suspended prison sentences. Sir Keir’s wife, Victoria, testified feeling uncomfortable and apprehensive during the protest. Prosecutor David Burns stated that she was intimidated and scared by the protesters’ actions, leading her to be forced out of her home.
The judge acknowledged the impact on Sir Keir’s wife and highlighted the fear politicians face due to attacks on democracy. He mentioned the tragic murders of MPs Jo Cox and Sir David Amess, emphasizing the distress caused by protests outside a senior politician’s residence.
The activists, belonging to the Youth Demand group, defended their actions as a peaceful protest, but Ms. Starmer disagreed, citing the disturbance caused by the demonstration outside her home. Despite being instructed to leave by a police officer, the protesters continued their actions.
Overall, the protesters were given suspended sentences and ordered to pay legal costs. The judge emphasized the need to respect individuals’ privacy and prevent distress caused by protests near their homes.
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