In July, an attack in Southport prompted a surge of misinformation and rumors on social media. While many have been asking why all the facts haven’t been made public, the answer is that there is a universal rule in criminal cases in England and Wales that limits reporting on evidence before a verdict has been reached in court. This rule is intended to ensure a fair hearing for all defendants by preventing the jury from being influenced by news reports that could compromise the trial. There are some facts that can be made public before the trial, such as the allegations and the identity of the defendant. In the Southport case, for example, the police confirmed that the 17-year-old suspect had been born in Cardiff after rumors circulated that he was an illegal immigrant.
Axel Rudakubana, the suspect in the Southport case, appeared in court on Tuesday to face additional charges of producing a biological toxin and possession of a document that could be useful in terrorism. The fact that these charges were not made public until the day before his court appearance has led some, including the Conservative Party leadership candidates, to question why. However, it is not unusual for the police and the prosecutors to take time before deciding on additional charges, particularly when a defendant is already in custody. The police have a duty not to influence jurors, and prosecutors only announce charges when they are sure they have a strong enough case.
There have been some allegations that a terrorist incident has been covered up, but this is not necessarily the case. While Rudakubana has been charged with possessing a document that could be useful in terrorism, this does not mean that an act of terrorism has taken place. In order to declare a terrorist incident, the police must be sure that the suspect has been motivated by a political, religious, racial or ideological cause to commit violence in order to influence the government or public. This decision can take months, as the police sift through social media for evidence.
Finally, there have been questions about whether the Southport case is being delayed. While some cases are delayed when additional charges are added, the prosecution in this case has been given priority through an embattled and backlogged court system. The trial is expected to take place early next year, with the defense given extra time to prepare when necessary to ensure a fair and comprehensive trial
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