Raytheon 9 Acquitted!

A few news outlets are reporting the Raytheon 9 have been acquitted, though they report six have been acquitted today, this will all make sense in a bit I am assured-

Six Derry anti-war protesters have been unanimously acquitted of destroying property belonging to multinational arms company Raytheon. They were each found not guilty of causing criminal damage to the building and offices and an employee`s car in Derry in August 2006.

But, author and journalist Eamonn McCann, was convicted of stealing two computer disks belonging to the company. He walked free after Judge Tom Burgess imposed a 12 month conditional discharge. The 65-year-old said he and his supporters had been vindicated.

Update: This means I can repost what I wrote on the 4th which I took down in case it jeopardised this acquittal:-

Fan-fuckin’-tastic! According to People’s Geography–

The Raytheon 9 have just this morning been acquitted of terrorism charges stemming from their courageous actions taken against the Raytheon Corp. in Derry, following the Massacre at Qana on July 30 when Israel used the Raytheon JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munition). It was the Raytheon JDAM which guided the US MK-84 bombed to its target, a bomb shelter in the village, killing 27 and wounding 30 women and children and three elderly men.

Socialist Worker also reports it in a Google news search result though the page is down right now, more as I get it and I’m waiting for confirmation from Derry Anti War Coalition.

Update: Tuesday’s report does hint at what was to come-

Events in the trial moved rapidly today. Our lawyers began by asking the judge to withdraw the case from the jury on the ground that the prosecution had not proved its case, even after having called all its witnesses and that there was therefore no requirement for the defence to offer any further evidence: the case was lost, we should go free. After prolonged argument between the defence and the prosecution, the judge said he’d consider the issues over night and give a ruling tomorrow (Wednesday).

We have no idea how the judge will rule. But it was clear from the argument, and from the judge’s interventions, that our application was seen by all as very strong. Even if the ruling goes against us, the concessions made by the prosecution in the course of the exchanges gives us more confidence that we have a good chance of acquittal if the issue goes to the jury. Of course, you can never tell with juries. We are not complacent or taking anything for granted.

But everyone left the court in higher spirits than at any time since the case began.

The public gallery was again packed with supporters, including members of the Derry Anti War Coalition, a SWP contingent from Dublin, representation of the Quaker community, the Catholic Workers’ group and the WSM and individual republicans and others. The solidarity of all is much appreciated.

Tomorrow may be a big day. In any event, barring unanticipated further delays, we are still on schedule for a verdict before the week is out.