An assault charge against a protester has been discontinued by the Crown Prosecution Service following a heated Staffordshire County Council meeting in December 2025.
Damon Hoppe, of Yarnfield, was due to appear at Cannock Magistrates' Court on Friday 10 July. When he arrived, he was told the case had been withdrawn.
Mr Hoppe said he had experienced significant anxiety and stress during the legal process. "The case should never have been brought in the first place," he said. "The allegations were false, malicious and bordering on ridiculous."
He is now calling for a public apology from Staffordshire County Council leader Martin Murray.
December protest at County Buildings
In December 2025, Mr Hoppe was one of five people escorted by police from County Buildings during a full council meeting.
Members of the Stafford Campaign Against Racism and Fascism had been chanting from the public gallery. They said they would not leave until Reform councillors accused of making racist comments on social media resigned.
The meeting was suspended and police were called to remove the protesters.
Increased security measures in place
Security at County Buildings has been increased since the December meeting. Members of the media and public are now required to sign in and enter through a separate door during full council and cabinet meetings. Coats and bags are not permitted in the public gallery.
Five people, including Mr Hoppe, have not been permitted to enter the public gallery to watch meetings in recent months.
A letter issued by the county council in February said the council "wholly supports the right of any person to engage in peaceful and lawful protest" but must ensure council business can be conducted.
Investigation continues
A Staffordshire Police spokesperson said the matter had been withdrawn but enquiries are continuing as part of an active investigation.
Councillor Martin Murray was approached for comment but had not responded at the time of publication.