Photos from the Stansted 15’s sentencing day

Photos from the Stansted 15’s sentencing day
‘End the Hostile Environment’ — After being convicted of offences that could mean life imprisonment, a judge ruled that none of the Stansted 15 would be jailed. Though there’s much more work to be done, it’s certainly a small step in the right direction.

None of the Stansted 15 are going to jail.

The group, who were found guilty of ‘terror-related offences’ after chaining themselves to an immigration flight taking off from Stansted Airport, could have faced a maximum sentence of life imprisonment given the severity of the charges. However, the judge at Chelmsford Crown Court thankfully decided that wouldn’t be the case today – and instead, three of the activists received suspended sentences, while the remaining 12 were given community service sentences.

Though it’s difficult to see it as an outright victory given the absurdity of the circumstances, the sentencing is a blow for the Home Office and its Hostile Environment policy. The Stansted 15 were treated like terrorists for saving lives. There is much more work to be done, but this was a small step in the right direction.

Huck photographer Theo McInnes was outside court with supporters to document the events.

Follow Theo McInnes on Instagram.

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