Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Video and DNA Evidence Shown in Stonehenge Spraying Trial

Prosecutors say the Stonehenge stunt was planned for maximum publicity before the summer solstice.

Overview

  • Body-worn, CCTV and mobile footage was played to jurors showing Rajan Naidu and Niamh Lynch crossing ropes and spraying the stones with orange powder from fire extinguishers.
  • Prosecutors argued the timing a day before the solstice was chosen to achieve maximum impact and global attention for Just Stop Oil.
  • Forensic analysis linked DNA on a seized extinguisher to Luke Watson, whom the Crown says drove the pair and encouraged the act.
  • English Heritage staff and visitors described distress and safety fears about the substance caking if wet, and the clean-up was reported to cost £620.
  • The defendants deny damaging an ancient protected monument and causing a public nuisance, with statements characterizing the powder as harmless and the act as protest.