Just Stop Oil activists found not guilty after blocking London Pride march
A court's surprise decision has left police and Pride organizers stunned.
The Controversial Protest That Divided Opinion
Last summer, Just Stop Oil activists brought London's Pride parade to a standstill. They sat down right in front of the march.
The group's actions sparked heated debate across the UK. Many called it an attack on the LGBTQ+ community's biggest celebration of the year.
What Actually Happened That Day
The protesters walked onto the parade route near Piccadilly Circus. They carried bright orange banners.
Police quickly moved in. They arrested six people for public order offenses.
The parade was delayed for about an hour. Over one million people had gathered to celebrate Pride that day.
The Group's Message
Just Stop Oil said they wanted to highlight how climate change affects everyone. They claimed the LGBTQ+ community faces extra risks from extreme weather events.
"We're fighting for everyone's future, regardless of their identity," one protester told police at the scene.
Why This Case Matters
The trial raised big questions about protest rights in Britain. It tested the limits of new public order laws.
Prosecutors argued the group caused criminal damage to the event. They said the protest harmed Pride's message of inclusion.
The Verdict That Changed Everything
After three days of evidence, the jury reached their decision. They found all six protesters not guilty.
The judge said the group had a legal right to protest. He ruled they didn't mean to cause lasting harm to Pride.
This verdict could affect how police handle future protests. It might change the way courts look at similar cases.
What Happens Next
Pride organizers have already started planning extra security for this year's event. They want to prevent any disruptions.
Just Stop Oil says they'll keep fighting for climate action. But they haven't said if they'll target more big events.
The case shows how tricky it is to balance protest rights with public events. It's a debate that won't end anytime soon.
