All articles tagged with #uk courts
Former England international Raheem Sterling has pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, possession of nitrous oxide, and refusing to provide a specimen after a May 2026 crash. He faces a potential prison sentence of up to two years, with sentencing scheduled for November 25.
Judge Robert Altham ruled that the 2024 vandalism of a Barclays branch by five Palestine Action activists does not meet the threshold for a terrorist sentencing. Although the group caused £212,000 in damage to protest the bank's links to Israeli weapons maker Elbit Systems, the judge determined the act did not constitute 'serious damage' to a sensitive property. The activists, who were unaware of the potential terror charge during their trial, will face standard criminal damage sentences in September. The ruling contrasts with previous cases where similar actions against Elbit facilities were treated as terrorism, highlighting ongoing debates over the application of counter-terror laws to protest groups.
A UK judge ruled that the vandalism of a Barclays branch by five Palestine Action activists does not meet the legal threshold for a terrorism sentence, despite the group’s subsequent proscription. The activists, convicted in June 2026 for causing £212,000 in damage, will face standard criminal damage sentences in September rather than enhanced terrorism penalties. This decision follows a controversial post-verdict move by the trial judge to consider a 'terrorist connection,' which neither the defendants nor the jury were aware of during the trial. The ruling highlights tensions between counter-terrorism laws and direct action protests, with rights groups calling for the proscription of Palestine Action to be lifted.
Eighteen Palestine Action defendants linked to a raid on an Elbit Systems arms plant near Bristol have had aggravated burglary charges dropped after six others were acquitted; they still face other charges such as criminal damage and violent disorder, with five granted conditional bail and others remanded, while the six acquitted defendants face a retrial in 2027 on unresolved charges.
The UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) plans to consult on a redress scheme for missold car loans, estimating potential costs for lenders at at least £9 billion, possibly up to £18 billion, though recent court rulings have reduced the worst-case payouts. Major banks like Lloyds and Santander have already accounted for about £2 billion in potential losses, and the scheme aims to compensate affected customers, mostly with payouts under £950. The final costs and scheme details will be clarified after the consultation, expected early next year.