No charges yet for Golden Gate Bridge protesters

SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) — Less than 24 hours after protesters planned massive shutdowns in the Bay Area, the San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins said they need more evidence before those involved can be held accountable.

This happened after the California High Patrol announced a long list of offenses against the 26 protesters arrested in connection with shutting down the Golden Gate Bridge Monday.

The CHP arrested 26 protesters on charges including false imprisonment, unlawful assembly and conspiracy to commit a crime.

However, Jenkins said the protesters will be allowed out of jail facing no charges for now.

Hundreds of protesters took over the span forcing cars to stop in their tracks with drivers unable to get around the chaos.

The pro-Palestinian protesters took over the bridge around 8 a.m. at the height of the morning commute. They used pipes, chains and locks to make their removal difficult for law enforcement personnel responding to the scene. The northbound and southbound lanes shut down for nearly four hours.

Now, Jenkins said they must charge all 26 with clear evidence, which they don’t have yet.

“We are working with the CHP,” Jenkins said. “We are looking to see whatever evidence is out there.”

Some of the evidence Jenkins said they need includes video of arrested protesters caught in the act breaking the law. They are asking the public to help in this case.

“If you were trapped, please reach out to CHP,” Jenkins said.

Lastly, Jenkins said it is important to add that this not about the First Amendment.

“I understand being passionate, but you cant break the law,” Jenkins said.

Jenkins added that this is also about sending a message to others, that breaking the law — such as taking over a bridge and blocking traffic — will not be tolerated, and that even though they cannot charge now, this is still a very active investigation.

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