Emma Smart attended Poole Magistrate’s Court today, charged with failure to comply with a section 35 dispersal order on 17/11/22 at The Catch at The Old Fishmarket, in Weymouth [1].
Emma Smart was acquitted, with the judge recognising her Article 10 rights under the European Convention on Human Rights and that the CPS failed to convince that they had given adequate time for Emma to comply with the dispersal order or that her behaviour represented a threat.
A marine biologist and supporter of Animal Rebellion has, today, been acquitted after actions taken last November aiming to talk to Sir David Attenborough as he dined at the Michelin-starred restaurant.
Emma Smart said:
"I'm thrilled the judge recognised my right to protest on this absolutely critical issue, and I will continue to push the need for us all to talk about the solutions to the climate and ecological crises. I hope this verdict sends a clear signal that ordinary people across society are taking a stand for climate, social, and animal justice."
Louisa Hillwood, A primary school teacher and spokesperson for Animal Rebellion said:
"We are delighted to see the judiciary side with ordinary people taking a stand against the cost-of-living, climate, and ecological crises. Emma Smart bravely took action last November when she attempted to speak to Sir David Attenborough at The Catch and raise the conversation on the need for a plant-based food system. We will continue to have this incredibly important conversation about the need to completely rethink the way we produce food, in a way that benefits us all."
Animal Rebellion is urging wholesale governmental and societal support for farmers and fishing communities to transition to a plant-based food system and programme of rewilding that will secure a future for generations to come.
ENDS.
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