Reports

Campaign for the  Accountability of  American  Bases

Allegation of 'common assault' on MDPA officer

 

Lindis Percy has been informed by Philip Thomas (Sergeant - Ministry of Defence Police Agency - MDPA) that a file is to be submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service alleging that she 'assaulted' David Smith (MDPA) during the Tuesday evening demonstration at the American base at Menwith Hill on 11 April 2006.

 

This allegation stems from an incident at the new Nessfield gate when Lindis was demonstrating alone and carrying an upside down US flag on a bamboo pole.  It was very windy.  Regretably a corner of the flag accidently caught David Smith in his left eye.  His eye was temporarily injured as a result.  Lindis was immediately extremely concerned that this officer had  been injured.  David Harding (Sergeant - MDPA) was also present.  He radioed to the 'control' room saying that 'Lindis Percy has poked PC Smith in the eye'.  This clearly was not true.  Lindis went to the Main gate to give a voluntary statement as to what had actually happened.  The incident was witnessed by PC Hannigan who was asked by Lindis if he thought that this had been a deliberate act by her.  He said as far as he was concerned it was not.

 

David Smith attended the Accident and Emergency Department at Harrogate Hospital.  Lindis understood that he sustained an slightly inflammed left eye and was discharged with some cream to apply.  David Smith was off duty for two days.  Lindis phoned Menwith Hill 'MDPA 'control room' each night to enquire how he was. 

 

This most unfortunate and distressing injury that David Smith suffered was an accident and not a deliberate or reckless act by Lindis.

 

Towcester Magistrates' Court

Friday 5 May 2006

R v Lindis Percy

Alleged breach of s.69 'aggravated trespass' (Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994) - USAF Croughton -17 February 2006

 

Because we are having difficulties obtaining documents, a direction was given by Towcester Magistrates that primary disclosure is to be completed and the schedule of unused is to be served by 19 May 2006.  A pretrial review is fixed for 14 July in front of a District Judge who  will hopefully be appointed.  The actual trial will not take place until November 7th - 10th at a court to be arranged.

 

Later, a demonstration by CAAB took place for about 2 hours at the main entrance to USAF Croughton.  There were a significant number of expressions of support from drivers of cars coming in and out of the base.

 

Among other roles, the USAF Croughton Defense Satellite Communications System provides high-capacity communications capability in support of peacetime, contingency and wartime operations. 

 

Anni Rainbow and Lindis Percy

Joint Co-ordinators