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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence

@hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social
191 followers 655 following 84 posts

Award winning specialist practitioners in criminal litigation, financial crime and regulatory. Top ranked in Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners. Tel: 0330 822 5788 www.hja.net/legal-services/general-…

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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
Proud to continue our long-standing Tier 1 for Crime: General and to be recognised as legal experts in Fraud: White Collar Crime in the Legal 500 UK 2027 rankings. Congratulations to Ruth Harris on becoming a 'Leading Partner' and to our individual recognitions. #Legal500 #Legal5002027
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
Caroline Liggins and Katie McFadden had the pleasure of attending the LCCSA European Conference in Lisbon. An insightful and enjoyable few days filled with learning, networking and collaboration. Thank you to the LCCSA, 5SAH and 2 Hare Court for making it such a fabulous conference.
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 13/11/2025
Delighted that our team has been named in The Times Best Law Firms 2026. Recognised in the categories of “Crime” and “Financial Crime, Fraud & Regulatory”, this is a testament to our unwavering defence of clients and dedication to justice. #BestLawFirms #LegalExcellence #CriminalDefence
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 23/10/2025
Senior Associate, Michael Ackah was interviewed for this thought provoking piece for @younglegalaidlaw.bsky.social as we celebrate #BlackHistoryMonth, touching upon how he entered the legal profession, his experience of the criminal justice system when he first began as a Black solicitor, and more.
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 16/10/2025
We’re delighted to announce that we have once again achieved a top ranking in the #ChambersUK2026 guide for our work in Protest Law, with a “wealth of knowledge and experience” highlighted as a key reason our protest team's work is “unmatched.” #TeamHJA #LegalExcellence #ClientCommitment
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 16/10/2025
As we celebrate #BlackHistoryMonth, Partner Darrell Ennis-Gayle reflects on the loss of one of the profession’s most prominent criminal barristers, the legendary Courtenay Griffiths KC, honouring his legacy of a key figure who have shaped the rich history of Black lawyers in the UK. #BHM2025
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 02/10/2025
We’re delighted to again be recognised as one of the leading Criminal Defence teams in the Legal 500 UK 2026 Guide. We’ve maintained our Top Tier ranking in the category Crime: General, and earned an improved ranking for our “Financial Crime & Regulatory” team in White Collar Crime. #Legal5002026
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 02/10/2025
How do penalty points affect your licence, insurance, and right to drive? Sean Caulfield and Sadie Funnell explain the risks and what steps to take if you're facing disqualification.
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 02/09/2025
Too often, victims of negligence are overlooked or misunderstood. That’s why we’re joining @apiluk.bsky.social’s new partnership scheme supporting victims of negligence. Leticia Williams will lead our collaboration as we work to strengthen victims’ rights & drive real reform. #PersonalInjury
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 02/09/2025
What are your rights if you're released on pre-charge bail? In protest-related arrests, bail conditions can cross the line into disproportionate restrictions on civil liberties. Francesca Cociani & Kit Gamble explore what you can do if bail is being used to suppress lawful protest.
Image: Close-up of a person in handcuffs sitting at a table with a lawyer writing notes on a clipboard during a legal consultation.

Text: How can I challenge conditions imposed as part of pre-charge bail?
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 29/08/2025
Laura O’Brien appeared on @aljazeera.com warning of the growing suppression of voices around #Gaza. With international journalists banned from entering the region & groups like Palestine Action being proscribed here, are political interests being protected at the cost of truth? #RightToProtest
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 28/08/2025
Retirees are being arrested under terrorism laws for peaceful protest. @katiemcfadden.bsky.social speaks to @arabnews.bsky.social, describing how these individuals are stepping forward because they recognise the threat to fundamental freedoms. #RightToProtest #PalestineAction #FreedomOfSpeech
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 20/08/2025
#Cuckooing will soon be a specific offence under the #CrimeAndPolicingBill 2025. Partner, Sean Caulfield & Trainee, Louisa Reddin discuss how effective implementation of the new offence will depend on more than just legislation, nuance is key in protecting victims rather than punishing them.
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 20/08/2025
Best-selling Irish author Sally Rooney has pledged to donate a portion of her earnings to support #PalestineAction. @katiemcfadden.bsky.social joined Ben Kentish on @lbc.co.uk to unpack the legal risks Rooney may now face under UK anti-terrorism laws. 1/2 #RightToProtest #PeacefulProtest
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 19/08/2025
Raj Chada spoke to @lewisgoodall.com on @lbc.co.uk about the implications of proscribing #PalestineAction. This decision breaks new ground by using property damage as a reason to label a group terrorist, a move with wide-reaching consequences for political protest. 1/2 #RightToProtest
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 14/08/2025
The proscription of #PalestineAction sends a chilling message about the #RightToProtest. Senior Associate, @katiemcfadden.bsky.social appeared on BBC News to challenge this criminalisation of protest. Even the arresting officers are beginning to see the flaws in this policy. #FreeSpeech
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 13/08/2025
Is the right to protest being unfairly redefined and restricted? Partner, Laura O’Brien joins James Hanson on @lbc.co.uk to outline the legal implications around the Palestine Action ban and why it may potentially threaten all protest rights. 1/3 #PalestineAction #RightToProtest #CivilDisobedience
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 13/08/2025
Mahatma Gandhi, a lawyer by training, a leader by conviction. Gandhi pioneered peaceful resistance & reshaped the fight for justice in India & beyond. His story is a reminder that true power often lies in peaceful resistance. #SAHM2025 #RootsToRoutes #SouthAsianHeritageMonth
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 12/08/2025
As public concern grows over the recent proscription of Palestine Action, @katiemcfadden.bsky.social joins Peter Caldwell on Talk TV to outline practical steps for protestors and defends the principle of dissent at the heart of democracy. 1/4 #PalestineAction #RightToProtest #CivilDisobedience
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 24/07/2025
What does it take to get a criminal case dropped? Associate, Ghislaine Sandoval examines some of the tools at a solicitor’s disposal to challenge weak or unjust prosecutions. If you’ve been unfairly charged, the legal system still gives you a chance to fight back. #WronglyAccused #CriminalDefence
Image: Young man stood in court

Text: Wrongly Accused - How we can help get your case dropped
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 22/07/2025
At a time when the legal landscape for protest is under intense scrutiny, ‘A Practical Guide to Sentencing in Protest Cases’ by Laura O’Brien provides clarity where it’s most needed. A timely and indispensable read for those working in this fast-evolving area of law. #ProtestLaw #RightToProtest
Cover of a legal guide titled 'A Practical Guide to Sentencing in Protest Cases' featuring police officers in high-visibility jackets holding batons in formation with headshot of author, Laura O'brien.
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 22/07/2025
Peaceful protesters continue to be arrested following the #PalestineAction ban. Partner, Raj Chada speaks to @shelaghfogarty.bsky.social on @lbc.co.uk to argue that proscription law is unclear, incoherent & nonsensical. It is a sign of authoritarianism & abuse of power. 1/2
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 18/07/2025
Don’t miss Raj Chada, Partner & Head of our Crime, at the #BristolHarbourFestival this weekend in discussion with Gaie Delap, whose #JustStopOil protest led to a 20-month prison sentence. From arrest to release, their session will unpack the legal fight for protest rights in today’s UK.
Defending Protest
Demanding Justice
Join Raj Chada & Gaie Delap as they discuss legal justice 
in activism.
Sunday 20th July
15:00
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 11/07/2025
Partner, Raj Chada joins Jim Diamond on LBC to explain why a move to juryless trials is a dangerous shortcut that risks fair justice. Funding and reform are needed, but not at the expense of a cornerstone of our legal system. #JuryTrial #JusticeSystem #LegalSupport
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 09/07/2025
Partner, Raj Chada is delighted to be chairing the panel discussion on the #RightToProtest, a spotlight on environmental defenders, with many great activists & some MPs dropping by. Our democratic right to protest must be protected against troubling recent moves by our leaders to stifle dissent.
Protesters and security personnel stand near a metal fence during an environmental demonstration event announcement.
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 09/07/2025
The proscription of #PalestineAction led to dozens of arrests over the weekend. Senior Associate, Francesca Cociani joined Ash Sarkar on @novaramedia.com to discuss these developments with peaceful protesters facing being labelled as terrorists for holding up a sign. #PeacefulProtest #ProtestLaw
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 07/07/2025
Partner, Raj Chada joined Jonathan Ray on @lbc.co.uk to unpack the legal and civil rights implications. Proscription is intellectually bankrupt, politically unprincipled , morally wrong … and ridiculous. There will be further legal challenges against it. #ProtestLaw #CriminalDefence
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 06/07/2025
Proposals to hear fraud cases in the absence of a jury is constitutional vandalism. Partner, Raj Chada joins Matthew Wright on LBC to discuss why we must oppose courts without jury. Underfunding & inefficiencies in our court system must be addressed but not at the cost of fair trials.
Image: Raj Chada- Partner Criminal Defence

Text: This is an act of constitutional vandalism.
Juries are part of our democratic settlement and have been for centuries.
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 04/07/2025
Thurrock cut youth services but found public money to silence protesters. Partner, Raj Chada tells @novaramedia.com why this growing use of sweeping civil injunctions to target protestors raises serious concerns about the erosion of democratic rights. #RightToProtest #ClimateJustice
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 03/07/2025
Can arrest be used as a form of intimidation? @theguardian.com highlights how police are increasingly using arrests to intimidate protesters with no intention of prosecuting.Partner, Raj Chada argues the Met are abusing their authority for control, not justice. #RightToProtest #PolicePowers
Professional portrait of Raj Chada, Partner in Criminal Defence at Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors, wearing a black suit and red tie.

Quote: It was a way for police control for demonstrations, because you could put bail conditions more easily on people to prevent them coming into central London
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 01/07/2025
We’re excited to announce that we have acquired the renowned Birds #Solicitors. Steven Bird is joining our #CriminalDefence team, bringing decades of expertise & a team with an outstanding reputation. We’re thrilled to continue our shared mission of challenging injustice together. #LegalSupport
Hodge Jones & Allen Senior Team
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 01/07/2025
What a day! We were honoured to join the #LondonLegalWalk in June, bringing together thousands of legal professionals supporting access to justice for those who need it most. Thanks to your generosity we were able to raise £837 for frontline legal advice services. #LegalAid #AccessToJustice
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 24/06/2025
New UK proposals aim to fight foreign interference, but at what cost? Partner, Laura O’Brien & Paralegal, Ben Follows examine the fine line between safeguarding the public & protecting civil liberties. A relevant consideration given recent moves against #PalestineAction. #PeacefulProtest
TEXT: Understanding the new legislative proposals on State Threat activity

IMAGE: Private investigator taking a picture
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 24/06/2025
With the recent decision to ban Palestine Action under anti-terrorism laws, is the UK shifting towards #Authoritarianism? Partner Raj Chada joined Steve Holden on LBC to debate this troubling development. The right to #Protest must be protected. #PeacefulProtest @palaction.bsky.social
Raj Chada - Partner | Criminal Defence
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 20/06/2025
Banning choking porn isn’t enough. We need #MediaLiteracy, education, and regulation. Partner, Sean Caulfield joins the conversation in Cosmopolitan calling for a smarter approach to tackling violence and misogyny. Education, not censorship, must be the priority. #OnlineSafety #SexEducation
Sean Caulfield | Criminal Defence Partner
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 18/06/2025
The #VagrancyAct 1824 is finally being repealed. Partner, Sean Caulfield & Trainee, Tabea Wilkes reflect on what it means for homelessness, justice, & real reform. A long overdue step toward treating #homelessness as a social issue, not a crime. #CriminalDefence
Criminalisation of rough sleeping to end with vagrancy act repeal
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 18/06/2025
Gorgeous weather, great company, & a wonderful cause! Thanks to everyone who joined us on the #LondonLegalWalk yesterday. Thousands walked to ensure no one is denied legal help when they need it most. Thank you for every step, share, & donation. #LegalAid #AccessToJustice
Hodge Jones and Allen team taking part in London Legal Walk
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 10/06/2025
Just 1 week until we hit the streets for the #LondonLegalWalk! We'll be joining 15,000 passionate walkers to raise vital funds for #AccessToJustice. Every donation makes a real difference in ensuring legal help for vulnerable individuals. Join our efforts and donate today!
The London Legal Walk
We're taking on 10k for justice
Sponsor our Team!
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 09/06/2025
Solicitor, Emily McNally had a case dismissed for a vulnerable client today. He was prosecuted for carrying an airsoft gun whilst experiencing a psychotic breakdown. The judge agreed with our submissions that there was insufficient evidence. #MentalHealthMatters #CriminalDefence #CaseDismmised
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 04/06/2025
In 2 weeks we’ll be joining 15,000 passionate walkers for this year’s #LondonLegalWalk. Together, we’re raising vital funds to ensure access to justice for those who need it most. Every donation helps bridge the gap. Stand with us. Walk with us. Donate now! #LegalWalk #AccessToJustice
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 04/06/2025
We're thrilled to be sponsoring The #FairInTheSquare in #Highgate this weekend! This year we are supporting Whittington Health Charity, a North London charity committed to improving the lives of over 500,000 people through access to healthcare. Drop by our stall and say hello. #HighgateFair
We're proud to sponsor The Highgate Fair
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 02/06/2025
We’re proud of our LGBTQI+ colleagues and allies who make Hodge Jones & Allen a stronger, more inclusive firm. This #PrideMonth, we reaffirm our commitment to championing equal rights and protections for the LGBTQI+ community. #Pride2025 #LoveIsLove #LGBTQI+ #EqualityForAll
Pride Month 2025
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 27/05/2025
Just 3 weeks to go until this year’s #LondonLegalWalk supporting frontline free legal services. We’ll be amongst 15,000 walkers taking on the 10km challenge. All money raised brings us a step closer to making justice and support accessible to all! #LegalWalk #AccessToJustice
The London Legal Walk 2025
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 23/05/2025
History has shown the dangers of forced treatment, it must never be normalised. Senior Associate, Katie McFadden joins Dalia Gebrial on @novaramedia.com to discuss regressive government proposals to consider mandatory chemical castration for sex offenders. www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjBA...
youtube.com
Two Israeli Embassy Workers Shot Dead In Washington
YouTube video by Novara Media
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 22/05/2025
Senior Associate, Katie McFadden takes a critical look at government proposals for mandatory #ChemicalCastration on sex offenders for LBC. A violation of the core medical principle of informed consent forced medical treatment has no place in a rights respecting society. #JusticeSecretary
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Hodge Jones & Allen Solicitors @hodgejonesallen.bsky.social · 21/05/2025
We’re looking for a Legal Assistant to join our Criminal Defence team in London. If you have good administrative skills, an eye for detail and good time management skills, this could be the role for you. #CriminalDefence #London
Join Our Team

We are currently recruiting for: Crime Legal Assistant
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 07/05/2025
The Protest and Public Order Team at Hodge Jones & Allen have successfully represented two Youth Demand activists who have been acquitted after actions taken at the Labour Party Conference in September 2024. #HumanRights #ProtestLaw #LabourPartyConference #PeacefulProtest
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 28/04/2025
What impact have #JustStopOil protests had over the last few years? Francesca Cociani, Senior Associate in our Crime Team, joined Clare Foges on LBC to discuss the increasingly draconian response to environmental #protests & how the legal landscape has changed. #JSO #CriminalDefence
Francesca Cociani - Senior Associate | Criminal Defence
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 25/04/2025
The government plans to extend use of PAVA spray, a painful chemical weapon, to facilities holding children. This is not safety, it’s cruelty. Our Youth Team is firmly opposed to this and are prepared to take all necessary measures, including supporting legal action to challenge it.
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Hodge Jones & Allen Criminal Defence @hjacriminaldefence.bsky.social · 25/04/2025
Thursday night’s a school night in The HJA bar! A big thank you from our Financial Crime and Regulatory Team to Ben Newton KC, Kate O’Raghallaigh & Tayyiba Bajwa of Doughty Street Chambers for leading an enlightening seminar, & to friends & colleagues who joined us to share this lovely evening.
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