https://x.com/fraserihudghton/status/1986759821979217973
NEWS - VICTORY - SUSAN SMITH.
@PoliceScotland
have informed
@ForWomenScot
&
@SpeechUnion
they've concluded their ‘review’ into the criminal complaint made against FWS Director Susan Smith. She will not receive a Police Recorded Warning or be subject to criminal charges for alleged ‘minor vandalism’ outside the Scottish Parliament on 4 September 2025. Police will be taking no further action in relation to the complaint made against her. This is a win for free speech, for women's right to be heard in Scotland and for basic common sense. Susan has been offered a meeting with senior officers at Police Scotland and will be taking up that opportunity to discuss her case and the wider issues raised - particularly the need for women to feel protected by law enforcement. Susan Smith commented: "I am relieved that I can now draw a line under this episode and I am incredibly grateful to the Free Speech Union and my lawyer Neil Hay for all their help and support. This has highlighted how difficult and frightening such an action must be for those who are not able to draw on the help of FSU and who cannot hope to have the same level of public, political, and press support I was fortunate enough to receive. "While I am delighted that Police Scotland have dropped this case, it is concerning that an individual who came with the express intention of disrupting our rally and drowning out our speakers was taken seriously, especially when extreme, credible threats to women are frequently overlooked. "I can now refocus on the essential work of FWS. We will continue to challenge the reluctance in Government, public bodies, and third sector organisations to obey the law as clarified in our Supreme Court victory in April and ensure that women’s rights are respected and our voices are heard." Fraser Hudghton added: "Questions are raised about who mandated the course of action against Susan Smith and whether there is parity when it comes to policing protests. The public expect all police investigations to be impartial and complaints dealt with even-handedly. That has not been the impression given. Police have come to the correct conclusion but only after a public backlash. "Of pressing concern is the speed at which police investigate or charge those who hit a political red button topic. It suggests that on certain issues you'll face the full brunt of our criminal justice system for holding 'unfashionable' opinions. The manner in which
@scotgov
policy wraps its tentacles around Police Scotland and
@COPFS
is of great alarm to FSU, as it should be to us all. The process is the punishment. Bad actors know this and savour it. "With the help of FSU Susan has not had to endure an extended nightmare. I thank Susan for her resolve in fighting back, and her solicitor Neil Hay for his criminal defence work on her behalf."