26 Charged After Golden Gate Bridge Protest

The San Francisco District Attorney's office has announced that 26 individuals have been charged in connection with a protest that occurred on April 15, blocking traffic on the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. The charges include 38 counts of false imprisonment, trespassing to interfere with a business, obstruction of thoroughfare, unlawful assembly, refusal to disperse at a riot, and failure to obey lawful orders from uniformed officers. Among those charged, eight face felony conspiracy charges, while the remaining individuals are charged with misdemeanor conspiracy. The protest began around 8 a.m. when demonstrators unfurled a banner reading "STOP THE WORLD FOR GAZA" across the southbound lanes. Protesters used chains hidden in pipes to link themselves together, complicating efforts to clear the bridge. It wasn't until noon that tow trucks were able to start removing vehicles, and the California Highway Patrol confirmed the arrest of 26 individuals, who were later released due to the DA stating that charges were not yet ready. The protest had significant repercussions, with the Golden Gate Bridge District estimating a loss of approximately $162,000 in revenue. Over 200 individuals contacted the CHP to report disruptions, with some missing critical medical appointments, school, and flights. One individual reported missing a pre-operative appointment for brain surgery. Arrest warrants have been issued, and the charged individuals have until Monday to surrender to the California Highway Patrol.