Full Breakdown
Trial of Palestine Action Activists Following Sledgehammer Attack on Police Officer
11/26/2025, 1:51:21 PM
Incident Overview
On August 6, 2024, six members of the protest group Palestine Action allegedly broke into the Elbit Systems UK factory in Bristol, an Israeli defense firm, using a prison van to gain entry. The activists, dressed in red jumpsuits and armed with various weapons, including sledgehammers, axes, and pyrotechnics, are accused of committing aggravated burglary, criminal damage, and violent disorder. Among the defendants are Charlotte Head, 29; Samuel Corner, 23; Leona Kamio, 30; Fatema Rajwani, 21; Zoe Rogers, 22; and Jordan Devlin, 31, all of whom deny the charges. Corner faces an additional charge of causing grievous bodily harm to Police Sergeant Kate Evans.
Details of the Attack
During the break-in, Sgt. Kate Evans was struck in the back with a sledgehammer, resulting in a fracture to her lumbar spine. Testifying at Woolwich Crown Court, Evans described the moment of the attack, stating, “It was just a massive shock vibrating through my whole body... I felt frozen.” She reported severe pain that left her unable to perform basic tasks such as showering or dressing and unable to return to work for three months. Another officer, PC Peter Adams, testified that he witnessed Corner strike Evans twice, while Evans recalled only one blow.
Eyewitness Accounts
Body-worn camera footage presented in court captured the chaotic scene, showing Corner allegedly swinging the sledgehammer at Evans while she was attempting to arrest another activist. PC Aaron Buxton, who was also present, described feeling scared as he was confronted by Corner, who swung the sledgehammer multiple times in his direction. He reported pain in his leg from the encounter.
Official Statements & Responses
Prosecutors characterized the break-in as a "meticulously organized" attack, emphasizing the use of weapons and the group's intent to cause significant damage. The court heard that the activists had previously targeted Elbit Systems during the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which intensified following the Hamas-led invasion on October 7, 2023. The prosecution noted that the group was banned under UK terrorism laws in June 2024 after a prior incident at an RAF base.
Criticism & Opposition
The incident has drawn criticism from various quarters, particularly regarding the methods employed by Palestine Action. The group has been labeled a terrorist organization, and the violent nature of the break-in has raised concerns about the safety of law enforcement officers during protests. Critics argue that such actions undermine legitimate protest efforts and escalate tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Sgt. Evans reported feeling only one blow, PC Adams testified that he saw Corner strike her twice. This discrepancy highlights potential gaps in eyewitness accounts and raises questions about the exact nature of the assault.
What's Next
The trial is ongoing, with further testimonies expected as the court examines the evidence surrounding the break-in and the subsequent attack on Sgt. Evans. The outcome may influence public perception of protest tactics and the legal ramifications for similar actions in the future.
