Just Stop Oil Activists Cleared Over Twickenham Final Disruption
Two Just Stop Oil protesters who stormed the Gallagher Premiership Rugby final in May 2023 have been found not guilty at Kingston Crown Court. The jury unanimously cleared Samuel Johnson and Dr. Patrick Hart of criminal damage charges exceeding £5,000.
Orange Powder Chaos at Twickenham
On May 27, 2023, Johnson and Hart disrupted the Saracens vs Sale Sharks match at Twickenham by releasing a cloud of bright orange cornstarch-based powder onto the pitch. Their stunt aimed to halt new licences for UK fossil fuel projects, spotlighting their demand for urgent climate action.
Doctors and Workers Stand Firm on Climate Duty
Dr. Patrick Hart, a 38-year-old GP from Bristol, defended their protest after the verdict. He said:
“Normal people recognise that civil resistance is essential to break through the lies of politicians, fossil fuel companies, and banks destroying life on earth. I told the jury I’m taking the most effective action on the best evidence to protect my patients’ health. Simply put: I’m doing my duty as a doctor.”
Sam Johnson, a 41-year-old construction worker from Essex, added:
“A year ago, Patrick and I ran onto Twickenham throwing orange powder in the air. Today, we’re found not guilty. I acted because politicians keep giving licences, fully aware it will cost millions of lives. Thousands have died from extreme heat caused by climate change while we stood trial. This crisis is happening now!”
Why The Verdict Went Their Way
The prosecution leaned heavily on lengthy testimony from Twickenham’s groundskeeper, who explained the hybrid grass system’s delicate nature—mixing real grass with synthetic fibres—which complicated cleanup. But the jury was not convinced ordinary people would understand this, making it tough to prove criminal intent.
Just Stop Oil Vows More Direct Action
The group insists their civil resistance must continue until politicians take real climate action. They’ve already announced airports will become new protest hotspots this summer. Supporters are urged to join the cause at juststopoil.org.
