UK Christian preachers face wrongful arrests despite no convictions
A series of wrongful arrests and legal battles have raised concerns about how police treat Christian street preachers across the UK. Recent cases show officers intervening—sometimes aggressively—even when no crime has been committed. Several preachers have since won compensation or had charges dropped, but the incidents continue to spark debate.
In Glasgow, Angus Cameron, a 52-year-old Christian preacher, was arrested without justification and later awarded £5,500 in damages. His case followed a six-day trial costing taxpayers an estimated £20,000.
In London, Oluwole Ilesanmi had his Bible confiscated during an arrest by Metropolitan Police officers. He received £2,500 in compensation after the force admitted wrongdoing. Meanwhile, Dia Moodley, a pastor assaulted while preaching, was handcuffed and detained by Avon and Somerset Police in 2021—despite being the victim. He now accuses Wiltshire Police of harassment and is pursuing legal action.
Shaun O’Sullivan, 36, has faced repeated arrests, with 16 detentions but no convictions. His most recent acquittal came after he was charged for saying, 'Pray for the Jews and pray for the Palestinians.' Similarly, Hazel Lewis and David McConnell were arrested while preaching, only to be cleared later in court.
Critics argue that officers sometimes act based on a perceived 'victim hierarchy,' prioritising the sensitivities of certain groups over free speech. Police have defended arrests as attempts to prevent potential violence, even when preachers break no laws.
The pattern of arrests, followed by acquittals or payouts, has left preachers and legal observers questioning police tactics. With multiple cases still unfolding, the financial and reputational costs for forces continue to grow. The outcomes suggest a need for clearer guidelines on balancing public order with free expression.
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