Just Stop Oil activists in the UK blocked a major road for four days, in November 2022. This caused massive traffic jams. Five of the hysterics were sentenced to prison for a “conspiracy” that caused a public nuisance.
Judge Christopher Hehir stated: “It is clear that you all crossed the line some time ago from being concerned campaigners to fanatics.”
He continued, “You have made yourself the sole arbiters for what should be done concerning climate change. You are not bound by democracy or the rule of law.”
“Your fanaticism has made you completely insensitive to the rights of other citizens.” “You have decided that your fellow citizens will suffer harm and disruption, and you decide how much harm and disruption they must endure, just so that you can parade your views,” said he.
In the U.S., we could use judges such as him.
The UK Sun newspaper, able to listen in on the Zoom call where the five felons planned the escapade, was able to catch them.
The outlet reported that the group was responsible for more than 50,000 vehicle delays, affecting over 700,000. They also left the M25 “compromised” for more than 120 hours.
It is believed that prison will have little impact on the fanatics. This was the reason why Roger Hallam received a 5-year sentence, as did Daniel Shaw, Louise Lancaster (58), Lucia Whittaker De Abreu (35), and Cressida Gothin (22) who all got 4-year sentences.
“I would like to remind the Court once again that my actions were not based on beliefs or opinions. Earth’s life support systems are breaking down because of human activities.”
“These aren’t beliefs or opinions, and feeling strongly about this being wrong is very understandable,” I would say. She said, “I deeply regret this action… I maintain it was necessary and I stand by my actions because they were the most effective options available to me.”
Guardian:
The sentences were a shock to supporters of the defendants, who had been denied any legal defenses for causing public nuisance after a trial lasting two weeks.
Hehir ruled the jury could not consider evidence of climate breakdown as a key reason for the defendant’s actions. They claimed that this was a good excuse.
They were denied “defenses of law” by the judge because none existed. Opinions are not defenses.
Michel Forst said, “Today in the UK is a dark time for peaceful environmental protest.” This sentence should shock any member of the public. This should make us all very aware of the current state of civil rights and freedoms within the United Kingdom.
What do you know? A hysterical attorney.
Judge Hehir’s sentence left no doubt as to the reasons for the prison term. “The protests created massive disruption.” The protests affected every section of the motorway orbital. Metropolitan Police alone incurred a cost of over PS1m. Some people missed flights and funerals. “The offenses were committed by you all, and I have stated that long custodial sentences will follow.”
Just Stop Oil’s “activists”, who are a step away from terrorists, have a similar agenda. The judge’s harsh sentencing may force some fanatics back.
