Women's Rights Campaigner Apologized to by Police Scotland
A women's rights campaigner accused of damaging a trans activist's rainbow umbrella during a protest outside Holyrood has received an official apology from Police Scotland.
Details of the Incident
Susan Smith, director of For Women Scotland, was asked to attend a police station to face vandalism charges after a complaint was filed by a drag queen opposing her views. The accusation involved allegedly damaging an umbrella during a rally outside the Scottish Parliament in September.
About the Complainant
The complaint was made by Tom Harlow, a drag artist and stripper known as Cabaret Against The Hate Speech, who actively counter-protests women's events by playing loud music to drown out feminist voices. Harlow has received funding from Creative Scotland, a Scottish Government quango.
Evidence and Investigation
Both video and still images from the 20-second interaction at the Women Won't Wait event, which included speakers like Tracey Edwards, Joanna Cherry, KC, and MSPs Pam Gosal and Ash Regan, show no visible damage to the umbrella.
Police Scotland's Response
Police Scotland reviewed the case last month and confirmed they are now satisfied that no crime was committed.
"Police Scotland said last month it was reviewing its response to the protest. Today it confirmed it is now satisfied no crime was committed."
Author's summary: Police Scotland has apologized to a women's rights campaigner after determining no crime occurred regarding an alleged umbrella vandalism at a Scottish Parliament protest.