KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

It’s going to be a hot summer this year. The world will be abuzz with revolution, and the oligarchic collective is working overtime to broker the final touches on its global empire.

You have the right to protest, but remember these 10 additional ones, which could save your ass when you’re in the field:

1. You are completely free to film the police.

Study the London Metropolitan Police’s guidelines.
The more often the police are filmed, the more they may come to expect that they may be filmed in the future, which can influence the way they generally treat people. Remember: Strength in numbers. Groups that film are more effective than one person.

Note: Section 58A of the Terrorism Act 2000 states that police officers can stop you filming them if they believe that the video will be used for purposes of terrorism. However, police guidelines state that:

“it would ordinarily be unlawful to use section 58A to arrest people photographing police officers in the course of normal policing activities… An arrest would only be lawful if an arresting officer had a reasonable suspicion that the photographs were being taken in order to provide practical assistance to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism”.

2. If stopped by an officer, don’t answer any questions or give your personal information.

Don’t run from the officer. Ask if you’re being arrested or detained.
If arrested, know your Miranda rights, which officers MUST read to you.

After arrest, you MUST see a judge within 48 hours. Generally, you have the right to:

– Remain silent

– Attorney

– Have one provided if you can’t afford one.

3. Witnessing abuse:

Film evidence, such as landmarks, badge numbers, and the act itself. Keep your camera steady. Backup data and upload ASAP.
If mistreated during arrest, write down, memorise, film, or have others film the officer’s badge number, name, and other identification.