Four protesters caused nearly £1 million in damage at a factory in Presteigne, mid-Wales, believing its products were used in weapons against Palestinians. The group, dressed in balaclavas and boiler suits marked 'Palestine Action', targeted Teledyne Labtech on December 9 last year.
The factory manufactures printed circuit boards for MRI scanners, radar systems, and satellite antennas, employing 64 people. The court heard that Susan Bagshaw, Ruth Hogg, Morwenna Grey, and Tristan Dixon met the night before and arrived at 6am, intent on disruption.
Bagshaw and Grey smashed through the front entrance with a sledgehammer and crowbar, destroying computer equipment and spraying red paint. They set off smoke bombs and covered a memorial to a former worker with paint. Hogg and Dixon climbed onto the roof, damaging it with tools and hanging a banner.
The damage exceeded £960,000. Staff reported being 'scared for his life' and 'extremely distressed', with one employee leaving the job due to fear of a return. Bagshaw, Grey, and Dixon pleaded guilty to conspiracy to damage property, while Hogg was convicted after a trial.
In mitigation, the court heard expressions of remorse and descriptions of the defendants as community-minded individuals. Bagshaw's barrister noted her 'genuine remorse' and history as an activist and artist. Grey's barrister described her as 'very caring', and Dixon's barrister highlighted his work as a sole trader and musician.
The defendants are due to be sentenced at a later date.
