The San Francisco district attorney has charged 26 individuals in connection to an April anti-Israel protest that resulted in the shutdown of the Golden Gate Bridge for nearly five hours. The protest trapped hundreds of drivers, including a mother with her baby and a surgeon who had to reschedule an operation.
District Attorney Brooke Jenkins announced the charges, stating that eight suspects face felony conspiracy charges along with multiple counts of false imprisonment, trespassing, obstruction of a thoroughfare, and other offenses. The remaining 18 individuals were charged with misdemeanor conspiracy and similar additional charges.
Arrest warrants have been issued for the suspects, who are required to surrender to the California Highway Patrol by Monday.
Jenkins emphasized the importance of protecting public safety while allowing for free speech. The protest on the Golden Gate Bridge posed significant safety risks, leading to the charges brought against the demonstrators.
An affidavit filed with the court revealed that the coordinated protest caused hundreds of motorists to be trapped on the bridge and US-101 for hours.
The protest began on April 15, 2024, when demonstrators blocked traffic on US-101 southbound near the bridge using vehicles and pedestrians holding signs. Despite warnings from law enforcement, the protesters refused to move their vehicles, resulting in arrests.
During the protest, some individuals were found locked to metal tubes, obstructing efforts to clear the roadway. Eventually, law enforcement had to cut into the tubes to remove the protesters from their vehicles.
As a result of the bridge closure, numerous victims reported missing work, medical appointments, school, and flights. One victim missed a crucial pre-op appointment, while another mother faced challenges due to the lack of water for infant formula.
The closure also impacted a surgeon who had to reschedule their surgeries for the day and a mother whose disabled child was stuck on a school bus for hours. The bridge incurred financial losses exceeding $162,000 due to the disruption.
Overall, the incident highlighted the balance between free speech rights and public safety concerns, underscoring the need for peaceful demonstrations that do not jeopardize the well-being of others.
