Overview

• Julian Foulkes, a retired special constable, was arrested in November 2023 after posting on social media about rising antisemitism following pro-Palestinian demonstrations.
• Kent Police handcuffed Foulkes, searched his home, seized electronic devices, and scrutinized his bookshelves, including works labeled 'Brexity.'
• The caution issued to Foulkes was later deemed inappropriate by Kent Police, who apologized, expunged the caution, and initiated an internal review.
• Foulkes, supported by the Free Speech Union, is suing Kent Police for wrongful arrest, citing the incident as an Orwellian infringement on free speech.
• The case has fueled broader debates about the policing of online speech, civil liberties, and the misuse of non-crime hate incident powers in the UK.