A Family Doctor Sentenced to Prison for Environmental Activism
Dr. Patrick Hart, a family doctor, has been sentenced to one year in prison for his involvement with the environmental activist group Just Stop Oil. This comes after Dr. Hart took action in August 2022 to demand an end to new licences and consents for oil and gas projects in the UK, a demand that has since become government policy.
Dr. Hart appeared before Judge Mills at Chelmsford Crown Court after being found guilty in October 2024 of criminal damage. He disabled petrol pumps at an Esso petrol station in Thurrock on the M25 on August 24, 2022.
Involvement with Just Stop Oil
Esso, a subsidiary of Exxon Mobil, is known for concealing the findings of its own scientists regarding the impact of fossil fuels on global warming. Exxon Mobil then funded a disinformation campaign to sow doubt and confusion around climate science.
During his trial at Chelmsford Crown Court, Dr. Hart stated, “I disrupted people as an act of care. I damaged the petrol pump screens as an act of care, because in times of great peril, a caring person has to stand up for what is right.”
Dr. Hart has already faced civil charges and fines for his actions, as the petrol station is under a private injunction. He is also facing a disciplinary hearing by the General Medical Council (GMC) and may be suspended or lose his medical license.
Standing Up for Climate Justice
Dr. Hart emphasized the urgency of addressing the climate crisis, stating, “Right now, the greatest health threat to all of us is the unfolding climate catastrophe. It is the greatest health threat we have ever faced.”
He continued, “I will continue to fight against the death sentence of fossil fuels for as long as I have strength in me. I have no greater duty as a doctor at this moment in history.”
Despite the potential consequences, Dr. Hart remains committed to advocating for climate justice and challenging the fossil fuel industry.
Continued Activism
Today’s sentencing follows a recent verdict in which three Just Stop Oil supporters were found ‘not guilty’ for similar actions. Just Stop Oil plans to continue their activism in 2025, urging others to join their cause.
To stay informed about upcoming actions or events, you can register at juststopoil.org.
About the Author
This article is based on a press release from Just Stop Oil and written by Brendan Montague, editor of The Ecologist.
