'This Was Violent And Deliberate Thuggery'

5 May 2026

Statement from Avon and Somerset Police Federation following the conviction of a Palestine Action protester of inflicting grievous bodily harm on our colleague Sgt Kate Evans.

Avon and Somerset Police Federation Chair Tom Gent said: "The right to peacefully protest is a cornerstone of our democracy – and police officers across the UK are regularly called upon to facilitate these protests without fear or favour. Here in Avon and Somerset, we have a proud tradition of upholding that right.

"This wasn't protest. This was violent and deliberate thuggery that has had devastating consequences for a courageous and dedicated police officer.

"Our colleague Sgt Kate Evans will have life-lasting effects from this despicable attack on her. Fracturing a brave police officer's spine with a sledgehammer is not protesting a cause; it's pure evil.

"Today’s guilty verdict is a significant step toward justice, but it does not undo the life-altering trauma inflicted upon Kate. No officer should go to work simply to uphold the law and return home with a fractured spine.

"Kate was doing her job of protecting the public and maintaining order, when she was met with brutality that has no place in a civilised society. This conviction sends a definitive message: those who choose to hide behind the guise of 'protest' to commit violence against our colleagues will be held accountable.

"While we welcome the court's decision, our thoughts remain entirely with Kate. This verdict confirms that such actions are inexcusable.

"Avon and Somerset Police Federation will continue to ensure she has the unwavering support she deserves after such a display of immense courage and sacrifice."

Four Palestine Action activists were also found guilty of criminal damage at a UK site of Israel-based defence firm Elbit Systems.

Charlotte Head, 30; Samuel Corner, 23; Leona Kamio, 30; and Fatema Rajwani, 21 broke into an Elbit Systems factory near Bristol in August 2024 before destroying property and clashing with security guards and police.

Corner was found guilty of inflicting grievous bodily harm after striking Sgt Kate Evans with a sledgehammer.

All four have been remanded in custody ahead of sentencing in June.