Possible jail sentences for protesters after Silverstone track invasion

A group of Just Stop Oil protesters have been found guilty of risking 'serious harm' during a protest at Silverstone at the 2022 British Grand Prix, BBC reports. The protesters entered the circuit shortly after the start of the race and had to be dragged off the track by marshals.

The group, consisting of four men and two women aged 22 to 47, was convicted of causing public nuisance. The jury reached the verdict after viewing footage, which showed the protesters taking a seat on Wellington Straight and remaining there while Formula 1 cars drove by.

Prosecutors argued that the group put not only themselves but also the F1 drivers and marshals present in direct danger. In their defence, the protesters argued that the action was "carefully planned" taking into account safety risks. The group denied that the action posed a risk of serious harm.

However, the jurors did not go along with this and ruled that the action was indeed dangerous. All members of the group were convicted of disturbing public order and risk a possible prison sentence. Whether it will come to that, they will hear on March 31, when the verdict will be handed down. The protesters were released on bail after agreeing not to get involved in further protests pending the verdict.