In a shocking case that has brought attention to the perils of pseudo-legal ideologies, four individuals have been convicted of attempting to kidnap a coroner in Essex.
Sean Harper, Shiza Harper, Matthew Dean Martin, and Mark Kishon Christopher were found guilty at Chelmsford Crown Court of conspiracy to commit kidnap and false imprisonment. Mark Kishon Christopher, additionally, faced conviction for sending a distress-inducing communication. Remanded in custody, he awaits sentencing, while the others have been bailed.
The incident occurred on 20 April 2023, when the group entered Seax House in Chelmsford, the base of Essex’s coronial service. Dressed in high-visibility jackets, equipped with body-worn cameras and handcuffs, they sought Senior Coroner Lincoln Brookes, falsely asserting that his court was shut down. Though Mr Brookes was absent, they threatened those present, claiming knowledge of their residences.
Police intervention ensued, with Mr Christopher proclaiming, “we have shut this court system down” and asserting the police were present to assist him, not question him. Mr Martin was detained on-site for assault and criminal damage, while the other conspirators initially evaded capture.
Essex Police identified the group as subscribing to an ‘organised pseudolegal commercial argument’ ideology, which dismisses conventional legal systems, instead promoting a ‘court of the people.’ This belief mirrors the ‘freeman of the land’ theory, described by legal authorities as a misguided concoction of legal-sounding jargon without legitimate basis.
Investigations revealed that Mr Brookes had received escalating threats from the group, culminating in a letter menacing ‘corporal punishment on the spot.’ Subsequently, the three other accused were apprehended near Southend County Court, with evidence of a potential threat to Mr Brookes.
Shiza Harper, during questioning, claimed affiliation as a qualified postal inspector through a training course run by Mr Christopher. The group’s actions significantly impacted Mr Brookes, who described an increase in vigilance concerning his family’s safety.
Detective Chief Inspector Nathan Hutchinson highlighted the group’s belief in their own legal system’s legitimacy, noting their disregard for British law and the evident danger posed by such ideologies.
This case underscores the danger of pseudo-legal theories that can lead individuals astray, resulting in criminal behaviour. The successful prosecution sends a clear message about the importance of adhering to legitimate legal structures.
