Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Protestors storm Birkenhead county court and attempt to arrest judge

SIX people were arrested as demonstrators stormed a Merseyside courtroom in support of a man challenging his council tax bill.

Amid chaotic scenes the protestors attempted to arrest the judge "for contempt of court and treason".

Wirral Council is taking Roger Hayes to Birkenhead county court for non payment of council tax.

Mr Hayes, chairman of The British Constitution Group, claims the council tax is illegal and imposed without his consent.

His stand has won support from all over the country and demonstrators travelled miles to protest outside the court building.

As the case got under way yesterday, Mr Hayes repeatedly demanded district judge Michael Peake say if he was "on oath of office".

In response Judge Peake insisted it was a "properly constituted court", and said if Mr Hayes had a complaint, he could take up later.

But Mr Hayes persisted and when he did not get an answer he was satisfied with, said: "Sir, I am obliged to arrest you for contempt of court and treason."

Two supporters of Mr Hayes then attempted to arrest the judge but were stopped by police. More demonstrators then burst into Court One of Birkenhead county court.

The judge was quickly ushered out of the court by officials, saying as he left "this case is adjourned, I’m afraid" as more people pressed in, many filming with mobile phones. One demonstrator even took the judge’s seat, while police officers called for reinforcements.

One man was handcuffed which inflamed the protesters as dozens more pressed into the court room and shouts of "take the handcuffs off" resounded around the room.

Police attempted to take the handcuffed man outside but were blocked by people who demanded he be released – and an hour-long stand-off then followed as more police arrived.

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