In a verdict that marks another milestone in the aftermath of the 2019 anti-government protests, a Hong Kong court has handed down prison sentences to 12 people involved in the storming of the legislative council building. The incident took place on July 1, 2019, the 22nd anniversary of Hong Kong's return to China from British rule.

During the chaotic episode, hundreds of protesters entered the legislature, vandalizing the premises by defacing pictures, smashing furniture, spray-painting slogans, and painting over the territory's emblem on a wall. Riot police responded by using tear gas and clearing the surrounding streets before entering the building.

Among the 12 defendants were former student leader Althea Suen, actor Gregory Wong, and activists Ventus Lau and Owen Chow, who had previously been convicted of rioting. Additionally, some of them were found guilty of other related charges. Judge Li Chi-ho, considering the level of involvement and mitigating factors, handed down sentences ranging from 4 1/2 years to 6 years and 10 months.

The case also involved two reporters who were initially acquitted of rioting charges but were convicted for unlawfully entering the legislative council building. One of the reporters was fined HKD 1,500 ($192), while the other was fined HKD 1,000 ($128), according to Judge Li.

In the courtroom, supporters of the defendants expressed their emotions, with some crying and others waving signs in solidarity. Ventus Lau, during a hearing, explained that he entered the legislature to minimize the risk of injuries and expressed his willingness to stand with the protesters, stating that he would choose to go to jail rather than witness someone getting hurt.

Similarly, Owen Chow described the radical actions of the residents as a desperate cry when all pathways towards their goals were blocked.

Both Lau and Chow were among the 47 pro-democracy activists who faced charges of subversion in 2021 over an unofficial primary election. These charges were imposed under the Beijing-imposed national security law, which the Hong Kong government claims to have restored stability to the city. However, it has resulted in the arrest of numerous activists and forced others to flee abroad.

As Hong Kong continues to grapple with the aftermath of the 2019 protests and the implementation of the national security law, these sentencing decisions are seen as significant in shaping the future landscape of the city's political dissent and activism.