The San Francisco district attorney has charged 26 individuals in connection to an anti-Israel protest in April that shut down the Golden Gate Bridge for nearly five hours, resulting in hundreds of motorists being trapped. Eight suspects were charged with felony conspiracy, false imprisonment, trespassing, obstruction of a thoroughfare, and other related charges. Additionally, 18 individuals were charged with misdemeanor conspiracy. Arrest warrants have been issued for the suspects, who must surrender to the California Highway Patrol.
District Attorney Brooke Jenkins emphasized that while free speech is important, it cannot compromise public safety. The protest caused significant safety risks, including threats to the health and welfare of those trapped on the bridge. The demonstration, which disrupted traffic and resulted in the closure of the bridge, was deemed unacceptable by Jenkins, who stressed the importance of ensuring public safety at all times.
The affidavit filed in court revealed that protesters blocked traffic on US-101 southbound near the Golden Gate Bridge using vehicles and pedestrians with signs. The bridge captain warned the protesters that they were breaking the law and blocking traffic, and if they refused to move, they would be arrested. Despite efforts to communicate with the protesters, a resolution was not reached, and the dialogue did not result in the protesters moving their vehicles.
During the protest, three vehicles were locked to metal tubes, referred to as “Sleeping Dragons,” with individuals inside. Law enforcement personnel intervened by cutting into one of the metal tubes and warning the protesters that their vehicles would be cut to remove them. Following a conversation with Sara Cantor, who acted as a liaison between the protesters and law enforcement, the protesters chose to surrender and were subsequently arrested. The bridge was reopened at 12:20 p.m. after being closed for several hours due to the protest.
Victims who were trapped on the bridge reported missing work, medical appointments, school, and flights. One victim missed a pre-op appointment to have a tumor removed, while another missed a pre-surgery appointment for their baby. A surgeon had to cancel their entire surgery schedule for the day, and a disabled child was stuck on a school bus for four hours. The closure of the bridge resulted in significant financial losses, with the bridge losing over $162,000. Approximately 20,000 vehicles typically travel through the southbound and northbound lanes of the bridge during the morning hours.
The charges brought against the 26 individuals highlight the seriousness of disrupting public infrastructure and compromising the safety and well-being of others. The District Attorney’s office emphasized the importance of upholding public safety while respecting the right to free speech. The protest on the Golden Gate Bridge had far-reaching consequences, impacting numerous individuals who were trapped and unable to go about their daily lives. The legal action taken against the suspects sends a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated and may result in serious consequences.
