A CHARGE of unlawful knife possession has been dropped against a man who took part in an Extinction Rebellion (ER) demonstration outside an Amazon distribution depot.

James Ozden was accused of being in possession of a craft-type knife when he was arrested for alleged aggravated trespass at the Symmetry Park site, near Darlington, on Friday, November 26, last year.

It was one of a number of similar Black Friday demonstrations staged by ER activists at Amazon premises across the county.

During the protest at the Darlington site, makeshift structures were erected by demonstrators blocking access and exit from the depot, leading to the cancellation of some shifts over fears for Amazon workers’ safety.

Mr Ozden, a 26-year-old social sciences researcher, from Walthamstow, in London, was among up to a dozen demonstrators arrested at the protest.

He was one of nine to appear at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court earlier this year.

But, while the cases of the others remained before the bench, as he was also charged with possessing an article with a blade or point in public without lawful authority or good reason, he elected a jury trial.

He denied the charge at a hearing at Durham Crown Court, in February, and the case was adjourned for a trial in July.

Read more: Extinction Rebellion protestor denies unlawful knife possession at Amazon Darlington

The court was told his denial was on the basis of “reasonable excuse” for possessing the knife as he was said to be in charge of health and safety at the demonstration, which involved construction of the makeshift structures and the cutting of ropes.

His case came back before the court today (Tuesday April 26), however, for a “mention” hearing, with Mr Ozden’s attendance excused.

Deborah Smithies, for the prosecution, told the court that, following a review of the matter: “The Crown formally offer ‘no evidence’ and invite entry of a not guilty verdict.”

Judge Ray Singh, therefore, entered a not guilty verdict.

He asked what would happen to the remaining count of aggravated trespass, also faced by the defendant.

Miss Smithies said his case on that matter would go back before the magistrates.

Eight other accused members of the protest group have denied aggravated trespass and their trial is scheduled to take place at the court, in Newton Aycliffe, in June.

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