Friday 26, April 2013. 9.30-11.00 am

Family and supporters will protest against Steven Topley’s imprisonment outside Nottingham Crown Court 60 Canal St, Nottingham, NG1 7EL.

Contact details: Dave Perkins Tel; 07971 373479. Gina Topley Tel; 07952 976316.

A campaign has begun to free a man detained by police since 11th April for allegedly making a threatening comment during a DWP interview. Police were called to Steve Topley’s ESA interview by DWP staff who then escorted him to the QMC where he was kept late into the night and denied contact with his family, despite medical staff finding no reason to detain him. He was arrested by police later that night and charged with “threatening behaviour”.

Magistrates denied Steve bail, on two occasions, even under strict conditions, and he has since been remanded to Nottingham Prison. A demonstration has been called to highlight this injustice.

Steve has had no visits in Prison, not been offered an appropriate adult, and has been discharged from the QMC where there was deemed to be no reason to detain him under any section of the mental health act. Those prosecuting him continue to criminalise and pathologise him and present him as some kind of risk, insisting on closed hearings and secrecy. His health is suffering due to his treatment as he has a life threatening heart condition and requires constant monitoring and medication.

Steve’s sister Gina Topley will be available to answer specific questions relating to this case, and be interviewed, as well as concerned campaign supporters.

More background information is available at: www.freestevetopley.wordpress.com

Contact: Dave Perkins

Email: Freestevetopley@gmail.com

Mobile number: 07971 373479