06 Dec “Rebel for Life”
XR Activist pleads ‘not Guilty’ to Criminal Damage on Downing Street
An environment protester who spray painted a wooden barrier at Downing Street, had appeared in court today as he was arrested and subsequently charged for Criminal Damage.
Ion John Gray, of Howard Way, Barnet, pleaded not guilty to one charge of Criminal Damage under section 30 of the Criminal Damage Act 1971.
Mr Gray’s legal team claimed the charges were unfair, as the paint used was chalk-based and would not have caused any permanent damage to the property.
On November 14th, 2018, the accused, who was part of an Extinction Rebellion protest in London, was seen spray painting the logo ‘XR2’ at the entrance of downing street. He was then arrested by a police officer and detained. Police statements read out in court stated: “Mr. Gray was warned to cease what he was doing as it was a criminal offence to deface public property. He continued, and the officer proceeded to place Mr. Gray under arrest. The court was told that he did not resist arrest.
The 67-year-old is a technical salesperson who also does volunteer work. Speaking in his defense, the separated father of two told the court: “Climate change is a big issue and an accepted and existing threat too serious to be ignored, and likely to escalate in the near future”. He further stated: “Downing Street seemed appropriate to him at the time as it is the ‘heart of politics,’ and beneficial as they are seeking for laws to be changed”.
Gray’s legal team argued that her client was not committing a crime, and by using chalk-based paint, the writing would eventually wash off, and that his actions were necessary and reasonable, and a lawfully proportionate of public protest.
The case continues.
