Ben Newman Pleads Not Guilty to Causing Public Nuisance

Ben Newman, a 32-year-old man, has appeared at Guildford Magistrates’ Court facing charges of causing public nuisance following a protest at the Epsom Derby. During the event on Saturday, Newman was filmed running onto the track as the race commenced, prompting a swift response from law enforcement.

In court, Newman pleaded not guilty to the charges. The incident occurred despite The Jockey Club having secured an injunction against the Animal Rising group, which aimed to prevent disruptions at the event. Newman was one of 31 individuals arrested during the protest, with 12 arrests made directly on the racecourse.

After the disruption, police chased Newman through the crowd, which reacted with jeers, before officers apprehended him. Newman has been remanded into custody and is scheduled to appear at Guildford Crown Court on July 6. The case has drawn attention amid ongoing discussions about protests and animal rights in the context of horse racing.