THE dismissal of charges against 16 pro-Palestinian defendants who protested outside an Israeli-owned business in Melbourne may have wider legal ramifications.
Magistrate Simon Garnett yesterday found the protesters last year did not surround Max Brenner's chocolate bar in the city's QV Centre with hostile intent or to obstruct the public.
Mr Garnett also ruled their gathering and expression of beliefs did not threaten public order or breach the peace and they had a lawful right to enter the area and demonstrate. He dismissed the besetting premises and trespass charges. He will decide this morning if five defendants are guilty of other charges.
Defence lawyer Rob Stary expects the ruling to set a precedent for issues such as picket lines.
This story was found at: http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/victory-for-max-brenner-protesters-20120723-22kps.html
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