Bernie Smyth (front black dress) with her supporters and solicitor Aiden Carlin outside court this afternoon
PRECIOUS Life campaigner Bernie Smyth won her appeal against her harassment conviction.
In November, deputy district judge Chris Holmes had found her guilty of harassing Dawn Purvis, the former programme director of Marie Stopes International.
Judge Gordon Kerr QC quashed the conviction at Laganside courthouse.
He ruled that Bernadette Smyth’s laughter outside the Marie Stopes centre in Belfast was not criminal behaviour.
The judge said there was “insufficient evidence” that Bernadette Smyth had harassed Dawn Purvis, “no need for emotive testimonies or dramatic arguments” adding that there was no case to answer.
Commenting on today’s ruling, Bernie Smyth said: “I thank God for my vindication and for helping my family and me through this horrible ordeal.
“Our prayers have been answered.
“I would like to thank the wonderful work of Aiden Carlin Solicitors and all my legal team.
“Precious Life and I will continue with the work we have been doing over the last 18 years, which is to advocate for unborn children.’’
