In March this year, Sam was sentenced to 16 months in prison following a peaceful protest with This is Rigged. The harsh sentence was unexpected and a shock to many. Particularly as Sam’s co defendants were all given non-custodial sentences.

This week, a successful appeal meant that his custodial sentence was overturned. It took four months for Sam’s appeal to be heard. Four months which Sam spent in prison in Scotland, hundreds of miles away from his family.

Sam’s 16 month custodial sentence has now been replaced with 150 hours community service.

While we are all so happy that Sam has been released, he should never have received such a harsh sentence. And it should not have taken four months in prison for that sentence to be quashed.

These four months have been incredibly challenging for Sam and his family. Fortunately, it was made easier by the support from our community. We would like to thank everyone that is a part of this amazing community for showing their support in whatever way they can, whether that is volunteering, donating, or writing letters to those in prison. It makes a world of difference.

If you are able to, please donate to support more people like Sam.

If you would like to support Sam directly, we are also fundraising to help with the financial burden of prison. Four months unable to work has had a considerable impact on his finances. Please donate and share Sam’s crowdfunder with others

With gratitude

Climate Action Support Pathway