A Labour Party activist has been handed a suspended sentence after performing a Nazi salute in a London courtroom, an act described by the judge as "deeply offensive and inflammatory".
The incident occurred at Snaresbrook Crown Court in Walthamstow, where the 42-year-old defendant was attending a separate hearing. Witnesses reported seeing him suddenly stand up and perform the gesture, causing immediate disruption in the courtroom.
Courtroom Outrage
According to court documents, the man's actions were met with gasps from those present, including legal professionals and members of the public. Security personnel quickly intervened, removing the individual from the premises.
Judge Eleanor Battersby, presiding over the case, condemned the behaviour as "an affront to British values and the dignity of the court". She noted that such actions could not be tolerated in a justice system that stands against hatred and discrimination.
Political Fallout
The Labour Party has moved swiftly to distance itself from the individual, issuing a statement confirming his immediate suspension from membership. A party spokesperson stated: "There is no place in our party for such abhorrent behaviour. We fully support the court's decision and will be conducting our own internal investigation."
Local MP Stella Creasy expressed her shock at the incident, telling reporters: "This kind of behaviour has no place in our community or our justice system. Walthamstow has always been a borough that celebrates diversity, and we won't let isolated incidents of hate undermine that."
Legal Consequences
The defendant received a six-month suspended sentence and was ordered to complete 200 hours of community service. Additionally, he was banned from entering any court building in England and Wales for two years unless required for legal proceedings.
Legal experts have noted that while courtroom disruptions are not uncommon, the nature of this particular incident made it particularly egregious. The Metropolitan Police confirmed they are reviewing security protocols at court buildings in light of the event.
