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IKP client found Not Guilty of malicious communications after sharing pictures of Gaza atrocities




Our client, H, was charged with malicious communications, following a conversation on social media with a former police officer, about the current conflict in Gaza.


Pratik Patel and Niall Shiels, of IKP’s Criminal Department, secured a Not Guilty verdict for H after a trial at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court, on 20 January 2025. Alison Bowden from Farringdon Chambers was instructed.


Our client had sent pictures to the former officer, depicting children who have been killed in Gaza during the conflict. Our client had no intention of causing alarm or distress to this individual, however, but was simply sending proof of Israel’s actions in the conflict, to support her argument. The messages were not malicious communications, as the Crown alleged, but simply demonstrated her political opinion and beliefs.


H was referred to IKP by the European Legal Support Center, an organisation advocating for Palestinian rights across Europe and the UK.


Following the trial, H commented on the experience and her representation:


“The arrest and the pending trial caused me significant anxiety, but from the outset, Pratik handled my case with the utmost professionalism. He responded to any queries or concerns I had quickly and with genuine care. He never failed to accept my calls or respond to emails immediately, even once when he was not at work. This demonstrated his high level of dedication and commitment to both his work and his clients.


Later, Niall took over my case, and I couldn’t have imagined anyone better to represent me through to the end. His blend of professionalism, genuine compassion, and empathy will forever be deeply appreciated and never forgotten. He was thorough in his work, communicating regularly with me and keeping me updated on the progress of the case. Like Pratik, he never failed to answer my calls and was always available whenever I had concerns. He calmed my nerves countless times, and his reassurance carried me through many turbulent days in and out of court.


I wholeheartedly recommend IKP, and especially Niall. He is an invaluable asset to the firm. His patience, kindness and dedication to achieving the best outcomes for his clients, and integrity to his work distinguish him and IKP from others. I am deeply grateful to them, ELSC, and everyone behind the scenes at both firms who contributed to my case.”

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