Compensation paid to Shropshire hunt protester by police
West Mercia Police have made an out of court settlement relating to the arrest of a female anti-hunt protester near Shrewsbury.
The woman was arrested during the disturbance outside the Mytton and Mermaid in Atcham on 25 February 2012.
Police were called following reports of a threat of disorder between the South Shropshire Foxhunt and the West Midlands Hunt Saboteurs and Northampton Hunt Saboteurs.
Officers detained two of the anti hunt protestors with one arrested.
Deputy Chief Constable Karen Manners said: "West Mercia Police can confirm it has come to an out of court settlement relating to the arrest of one person following a disturbance in Atcham in February 2012.
“A claim for unlawful arrest was made against the force, and following discussion between the parties involved, a settlement was made and accepted, and a compensation payment has been made to the claimant."
"The policing of hunting events and demonstrations requires a careful balance of the rights and freedoms of individuals, who often have conflicting interests. This necessitates officers making difficult decisions under notable pressure, in this case it is clear the balance was not achieved."
Lee Moon, spokesperson for the Hunt Saboteurs Association, stated: “This incident is a shocking example of West Mercia Police’s pro-hunt leanings.
“The force have a justified reputation as one of the most biased in the country and we hope this public shaming, and financial penalty, will force them to modify their behaviour. We are pleased that the compensation received by the victim was used for essential repairs of the group vehicle which enabled them to be out in the field saving hunted animals.”
A video of the arrest can be viewed at http://www.huntsabs.org.uk/
