Belgian officials have initiated a criminal investigation regarding the arrest of a conservative activist in Brussels last June, an event that attracted global attention and scrutiny from the US State Department.
On June 5, 2025, police apprehended Lois McClatchy Miller and Chris Elston while they were peacefully protesting and engaging with bystanders about their opposition to transgender medical treatments for minors.
Elston, who is often referred to as “Billboard Chris,” mentioned that he sought police assistance due to ongoing “abuse and harassment” from the crowd, particularly a man following McClatchy-Miller. Unfortunately, upon police arrival, both activists were handcuffed, their belongings searched, and they were taken to jail. Elston reported that officers suggested he might face charges for causing a disruption, though he was eventually released hours later without any formal accusations.
“They removed us because we’re pacifists, and it’s easier for them to eliminate us,” Elston conveyed.
This arrest led to significant backlash internationally, as noted by statements from the US State Department, which was monitoring the situation. A spokesperson affirmed, “We are aware of these reports and are investigating the matter. The State Department strongly supports freedom of peaceful expression for all.”
The Brussels public prosecutor’s office confirmed the launch of a criminal investigation into the incident, as revealed in a communication obtained recently.
In the correspondence, Brussels prosecutor Julien Moinil outlined that evidence gathering is underway and that Elston’s attorney would be contacted once the investigation concludes, allowing for a review of the case materials.
McClatchy Miller, known as a Scottish commentator and former legal spokesperson for ADF International, stated, “If we’re imprisoned for discussing issues relating to puberty, it clearly shows our right to free speech has been compromised.” She stressed that if charged, it would mark a severe infringement on democratic principles and highlighted a notable shift in how European authorities are handling public discourse. They expressed hope for a fair outcome that acknowledges the wrongful nature of their arrest.
The communications from prosecutors left some uncertainty regarding whether the activists might face charges. Elston, however, asserted his confidence, stating, “I’m not worried at all. I know my rights and have documentation of our actions.” He also indicated that if criminal charges were pursued against them for merely engaging in conversation, he would be prepared to confront that challenge. “It’s evident the police violated several protocols and allied themselves with those who were aggressive towards us,” he added, emphasizing the seriousness of the matter at hand.
Moreover, 20 members of the European Parliament had previously expressed their concerns about the arrest, emphasizing the threat to freedom of thought and expression within the EU. The European Commission responded, affirming, “Freedom of expression is a fundamental right and a cherished value in the EU.”
This investigation came after a request from the lawyers representing McClatchy-Miller and Elston in December, wherein they sought a resolution and a public apology.
In remarks to Fox News Digital, Elston, who has traveled extensively advocating against the treatment of transgender children, described Brussels as “the most woke city” he has encountered in five years of activism, noting the stark difference he perceived during his campaigns.
Reflecting on his recent experiences in the city, Elston recounted moments of distress, including an incident where a glass bottle was thrown, landing ominously near a child. He additionally mentioned concerns about safety as they were warned that Antifa might be approaching, recounting how pervasive sadness accompanied their journey through the area.
The Brussels public prosecutor’s office has yet to provide a response to inquiries from Fox News Digital regarding the case.
