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Video: Leeds PCSO’s gaffe is YouTube hit
A video of a Leeds PCSO falsely accusing an animal rights activist of being connected to terrorism has become an overnight hit on YouTube.
The film, recorded by campaigner Ali Firth outside Bramley pet supermarket Dogs 4 Us, has been viewed 5,000 times.
The star of the show is a police community support officer, who tells a bemused Ms Firth he can confiscate her camera under the Terrorism Act 2000.
When asked to elaborate he said the 49-year-old was with a group that is “connected to known terrorists”.
He refused to explain anymore due to “data protection”.
Prior to this a policewoman had told Ms Firth to stop filming, but she had refused on the grounds she was on public property and not breaking the law.
Once a month protesters gather outside the pet store.
They argue puppies should be picked up from animal rescue shelters, not breeders.
Ms Firth, who travelled from Lincolnshire, told the YEP she was “upset” by the PCSO’s accusation on Sunday, January 29.
She said: “I was filming the Dogs 4 Us building.
“I didn’t want to film the officers but they walked in front of me and then started telling me to stop recording.
“I have never heard anything like this in the 30 years as an animal activist.
“Never have I been called a terrorist. It’s ridiculous.”
An official complaint has been logged with West Yorkshire Police’s Inspector Mark Wheeler, who Ms Firth said had since rung her to apologise.
A West Yorkshire Police spokesman said a letter of apology was being issued.
He added: “We have looked into the circumstances of this incident and have spoken to the officers involved. It is important to note no camera or footage was confiscated.
“West Yorkshire Police has an excellent track record of facilitating peaceful protest, balancing the rights of protestors with those of private individuals and businesses.”
Members of the public do not need a permit to film or photograph in public places. Police have no power to stop them – unless there is a terrorist threat.
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Weather for Leeds
Saturday 26 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 8 C to 21 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 9 C to 22 C
Wind Speed: 13 mph
Wind direction: East
