Old Bailey jury dismissed in trial of eight Palestine Action activists

Eight individuals identified as members of Palestine Action have been on trial at the Old Bailey since late June for alleged involvement in a raid on the Elbit Systems site in Filton, near Bristol, in August 2024. They face charges of criminal damage and violent disorder, though one defendant, William Plastow, was previously acquitted of the latter. The prosecution alleges the group helped organize the operation by compiling equipment lists, conducting reconnaissance, acquiring tools and weapons, and coordinating the break-in and its filming, despite none being present at the scene.

After 37 hours of jury deliberation, Judge Patrick Field discharged the jury, halting the trial. The Crown Prosecution Service must now consider whether to seek a retrial, with a further hearing scheduled for 14 September to decide the case's future.