Do you honestly think that this going to be a case involving Jury Nullification? Jury Nullification is rarely used. Also a huge problem with this article is that it mentioning the maximum sentence that someone can receive for this. There is no evidence that he will be sentenced for that amount of time.
Mentioning jury nullification is a surefire way to get out of jury duty though I'd happily keep my mouth shut and serve for this case.
It would be if I was on the Jury.
That's why we have an appeals process.
I think this is more likely. There are a number of cases that have looked at speech rights versus vandalism (Graffiti being the poster child for these). The "correct" way to protest the bank is to stand out in front of it and hold up signage, that is protected by law.
I so badly want to live in a country where we can count on people to hear this, acknowledge it's absurdity, and act accordingly. Do we?
I appreciate your optimism. I really hope it works out well for this guy. I am seriously glad I'm not the one facing these charges though.