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Golden Gate Bridge protesters found guilty on lesser charges; judge declares mistrial on felony
ABC7 Bay Area • • nation
Key Points:
- Seven anti-war demonstrators were found guilty on multiple misdemeanor charges after blocking traffic on the Golden Gate Bridge during an April 2024 protest against U.S. military aid to Israel amid the Gaza war.
- A mistrial was declared on felony conspiracy and misdemeanor trespass charges due to the jury's inability to reach a verdict, though the District Attorney may pursue a retrial on these counts.
- The protest, involving 26 participants known as the "Golden Gate 26," resulted in charges being dropped or reduced for 19 individuals, with seven proceeding to trial.
- Defense attorneys criticized the prosecution as politically motivated and defended the protest as a necessary act of civil disobedience, while the District Attorney emphasized public safety and First Amendment rights.
- Sentencing for the convicted demonstrators is scheduled for August 21, with potential jail terms ranging from five to five-and-a-half years.
