Originally posted on Bristol Anarchist Black Cross – Prisoner Support:

Advice for avoiding arrest and staying free —

Advice for avoiding arrest and staying free

Posted on June 8, 2020 by bristoldefendantsolidarity | Leave a comment

So after the righteous toppling of Colston’s statue yesterday the police
have said they are investigating footage of Colston’s come down with a
view to making arrests. It may well be, in the context and in view of the
levels of popular support for the action, that they are not actually prepared
to follow through. But we think it’s definitely best to be prepared and take
steps to minimise risk of arrests and court cases.

So here’s a few bits of advice we feel it’s really useful and important to circulate right now to help keep people safe and free. Please share widely.

Advice:

For people present or involved in the take down of Colston:

Get rid of clothes (including shoes) you were wearing at the scene.
Don’t brag or gossip about your, or anyone else’s involvement.
Keep all stories and accounts off social media and the internet.
Encourage others to do the same.
Read up on your rights if arrested:
https://bristolabc.wordpress.com/defendant-solidarity/advice-on-arrest/
Have these numbers ready to call (you can assign to speed dial on your
phone to allow for a quick call if needed):Bristol Defendant Solidarity will support anyone arrested from point of
arrest through the legal process.

For everyone else:

Don’t identify anyone you know in photos or footage of the toppling of
Colston.
Don’t snitch, brag or gossip.
Keep all stories and accounts off social media and the internet.
Encourage others to do the same.

For collective self defence and solidarity.