Woman fined over counter-protest to Black Lives Matter vigil in Sunderland

The 38-year-old was taken into custody by Northumbria Police yesterday evening, Thursday, June 25, after a small group attended to voice opposition to the event as it was being held in Keel Square by Sunderland Unites.

The force said she was arrested on suspicion of a public order offence and has since been issued with a penalty notice.

It issued a Section 14 in the lead up to the vigil, banning any other public assembly, including counter-protests in the interest of public safety.

Last night’s event saw around 60 supporters take part in the vigil, which saw people take the knee in a show of solidarity, speeches and a minute’s silence for the three men who died in last weekend’s suspected terror attack in Reading.

People also made banners to hold during the event.

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