Prison Sentences for Vandals Who Damaged Van Gogh Painting

Two activists from the group Just Stop Oil have been handed prison sentences of two years and twenty months respectively, following an incident where they threw soup at the invaluable 'Sunflowers' painting by Van Gogh. The event took place in London two years ago.

The Vandals and the Damage

The vandals, Phoebe Plummer, who identifies as they/them and sports pink hair, and Anna Holland, are reported to have caused damages exceeding $10,000. This marks the first time they have received a punishment that somewhat matches the severity of their crime. Judge Christopher Hehir, during the sentencing, told them, “You two simply had no right to do what you did to Sunflowers, and your arrogance in thinking otherwise deserves the strongest condemnation.” He further added, “The pair of you came within the thickness of a pane of glass of irreparably damaging or even destroying this priceless treasure, and that must be reflected in the sentences I pass.”

Additional Charges

Plummer, known for her disruptive behavior, was given an additional three months to her sentence for blocking a major road, despite having received a formal warning against such actions. Plummer, who hails from a wealthy family and was privately educated, has a history of 'rebelling', which might be attributed to her privileged upbringing.

Just Stop Oil and Public Reactions

Just Stop Oil, an offshoot of Extinction Rebellion, is known to be funded by billionaires. They are often viewed as the establishment's tool, advocating for the same 'net zero' agenda. The public reaction to the sentencing has been largely supportive, with many expressing that the punishment should have been more severe.

Bottom Line

The incident and the subsequent sentencing bring to light the consequences of damaging priceless art in the name of activism. It raises questions about the line between activism and vandalism, and whether the privilege of some activists influences their actions and the public's perception of them. What are your thoughts on this matter? Feel free to share this article with your friends and discuss. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.