William Plastow, one of the 'Filton 18' accused in a Palestine Action protest against an Elbit Systems factory, faces 21 months in jail before his trial, which his mother, Jane Plastow, calls 'outrageous' and potentially the longest pre-trial detention for protest-related charges in the UK. He denies charges of criminal damage, violent disorder, and aggravated burglary.
‘It’s outrageous,’ says mother of UK Israel protest accused as he faces 21 months in jail before trial
UK
AI Summary
TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️
William Plastow, one of the 'Filton 18' accused in a Palestine Action protest against an Elbit Systems factory, faces 21 months in jail before his trial, which his mother, Jane Plastow, calls 'outrageous' and potentially the longest pre-trial detention for protest-related charges in the UK. He denies charges of criminal damage, violent disorder, and aggravated burglary.
Trending- 1 August last year (2024): Palestine Action protest at Elbit Systems factory near Bristol.
- 2 Plastow and others arrested under Terrorism Act.
- 3 Plastow charged with criminal damage, violent disorder, aggravated burglary.
- 4 Plastow denied bail.
- 5 April next year (2026): Trial date set for Plastow and five others.
- 6 June 8, 2025: Article published, highlighting 21-month pre-trial detention.
- William Plastow faces 21 months pre-trial detention
- Fears for his mental health (suicidal thoughts)
- Denial of bail despite surety
- Public outcry from family and partner
- Potential setting of a precedent for longest pre-trial detention on protest charges
What: William Plastow, a member of the 'Filton 18,' is being held in jail for 21 months awaiting trial on protest-related charges, which his mother and partner deem disproportionate and outrageous. He is accused of criminal damage, violent disorder, and aggravated burglary related to a Palestine Action protest at an Elbit Systems factory.
When: Protest in August last year (implied 2024). Trial date set for April next year (implied 2026). Article published June 8, 2025.
Where: Elbit Systems factory near Bristol, UK. William Plastow lives in Manchester. University of Leeds (Jane Plastow). England and Wales (sentencing rules).
Why: William Plastow is accused of participating in a Palestine Action protest against an Israeli arms manufacturer, leading to charges he denies. His prolonged pre-trial detention is due to a denied bail application, with the judge indicating a risk of re-offending.
How: Plastow was arrested under the Terrorism Act (though not charged with terrorism offenses) and denied bail despite a £50,000 surety and proposed restrictions. His detention exceeds custody time limits, and new sentencing rules mean his pre-trial time is equivalent to a long sentence.