First Convictions in Anti-HS2 Protest as Two Men Fined
Iain Edward Oliver, 40, from Uxbridge, and James Ruggles, 23, from Braintree, Essex, have made history as the first to be convicted for an anti-HS2 protest. The pair were found guilty of wilful obstruction of the highway at High Wycombe Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (13/10).
Protesters Block Road for Nearly Two Hours
The offence dates back to a demonstration on 11 January this year at Denham Court Drive. Oliver and Ruggles deliberately walked on the road, causing a traffic jam that lasted an hour and 47 minutes over 750 metres. They refused to move, effectively halting the highway and disrupting traffic.
Both men were arrested soon after. Ruggles skipped the court hearing but was convicted in his absence. Each man was slapped with a £200 fine plus £300 costs.
Police Send a Clear Message on Protests
“These two men are the first people to be convicted in connection with an anti-HS2 protest in the country,” said a Thames Valley Police spokesperson.
“While we support peaceful protest, we will take action and bring offenders to court.”
The police reaffirmed their commitment to balancing the public’s right to demonstrate with the right of HS2 to carry out lawful business.
