Street preacher launches civil action against Cumbria Police

The Christian street preacher who was arrested for expressing his religious belief about homosexuality is to take legal action over the incident.

Dale Mcalpine, who made no mention of homosexuality during his public sermon, was arrested last month after he described homosexual conduct as a “sin” during a conversation with two Police Community Support Officers.

Mr Mcalpine now intends to bring a civil action against both the arresting officer and the Chief Constable of Cumbria Police.

Mr Mcalpine said: “As a Christian man, I forgive the police for their actions. However, I also want to protect others who may face similar problems in the future.

“This can’t just be brushed under the carpet, freedom of speech is too precious for that.”

He is suing for unlawful arrest, false imprisonment and unlawful interference with his right to freedom of expression and freedom of religion.

The Christian Institute, which acts to defend religious liberty for Christians, is supporting Mr Mcalpine and financing his legal action.

Mike Judge, Head of Communications at The Christian Institute, said: “Mr Mcalpine’s arrest was extraordinary, but sadly not unique. Similar incidents have happened in Bournemouth, Cardiff, Oxford, and Glasgow.

“There is clearly a problem in the system and the public order law needs to be reviewed and amended. In Britain, we don’t arrest people for expressing their beliefs. Or at least, I thought not.”

Mr Mcalpine’s arrest was widely denounced by media commentators.

A youtube video of Mr Mcalpine’s arrest can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12LtOKQ8U7c