Pro-Palestinian Protesters in SeaTac Set to Have Charges Dropped

SEATAC, Wash. (AP) — More than 36 pro-Palestinian protesters, known as “The Sea-Tac 46,” are on track to have misdemeanor charges of disorderly conduct and failure to disperse dismissed following a demonstration that blocked a main road into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport in April. SeaTac prosecutors announced this week that the charges would be dropped if the defendants comply with certain conditions, including attending court hearings, avoiding further legal violations, and limiting access to airport property. The protesters can expedite the dismissal of their charges by completing 10 hours of community service or after three months if they meet the stipulated conditions. Hope Freije, a spokesperson for the group, indicated that the defendants preferred this resolution over a trial. SeaTac officials noted that some protesters had their cases dismissed due to difficulties in obtaining public defenders. The April 15 demonstration, which lasted several hours, was part of a coordinated effort across multiple states, including California, Illinois, and New York, where protesters called for a cease-fire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Social media footage captured demonstrators holding banners and waving Palestinian flags while obstructing traffic. In related developments, San Francisco prosecutors have charged 26 protesters for blocking the Golden Gate Bridge on the same day, facing more severe charges, including felony conspiracy. The San Francisco Public Defender’s Office is advocating for the dismissal of these charges, echoing a previous decision to drop charges against 78 protesters involved in a similar action in November.