Extinction Rebellion co-founder sentenced for Guildhall damage

One of the founders of Extinction Rebellion has been sentenced to two months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, ordered to undertake 150 hours of unpaid work and pay £1200 in compensation at the Inner London Crown Court today.

Stuart Basden, 41, of Hebden Bridge, and Robert Possnett, 62, of Bury St Edmunds used adapted fire extinguishers to spray a red paint-like substance over the façade of the Guildhall on the 27 August 2021. Their acts caused in excess of £15,000 worth of damage.

Basden and Possnett first stood trial in October 2022. Possnett was found guilty and sentenced to two months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, ordered to undertake 150 hours of unpaid work and pay £1200 in compensation.

A jury could not return a verdict on Basden and there was a re-trial on the 4 September 2023, at the conclusion of which a jury found him guilty.

Detective Sergeant David Honan, City of London Police said:

“Peaceful protest is the cornerstone of our democracy and we will facilitate lawful protests proportionately and respectfully.

“This prosecution sends out a clear message that criminal damage towards businesses and institutions will not be tolerated and will result in police action, in partnership with Crown Prosecution Service.”