Herald Johnson, a prominent anti-racism activist and secretary of the Monitoring Group North, was convicted of racist abuse against two white traffic wardens in Sheffield in 2005. The incident occurred on December 16, when Johnson approached the wardens and subjected them to a vitriolic tirade, telling them to 'get back to Eccles Road and book your white aunties and uncles'.
Sheffield magistrates heard how Johnson was 'right up in their faces', claiming the wardens had no right to be in the area. He was convicted of harassment and using 'racist, threatening or insulting words' on January 3, 2006, and fined £200 with £100 costs. Johnson denied the offences and his appeal was heard later.
Johnson is also due in court on March 16 over allegations of jumping a red light while driving without insurance or a licence. His role as secretary of the Monitoring Group North has made him a familiar figure at court cases and inquests, particularly those involving black nightclubs.
The activist lives alone in a three-bedroom terraced house in Sheffield, which also serves as the base for a monthly black newspaper called Wha'a Gwan (Confusion Today). His source of income is unclear, though the Monitoring Group's website states it has obtained a 'small amount of funding'.
Footage of Miss Comer's arrest was released on the Monitoring Group's website, which claims the grainy scenes illustrate the 'real crimes perpetrated on the communities'. The site crashed yesterday lunchtime due to huge public interest.
