Activist Throws Lobster Into Sea, Restaurant Owner Outraged

A restaurateur has voiced profound disappointment after an animal rights activist received a conditional discharge and a three-year restraining order for 'freeing' a lobster from his establishment. Emma Smart, 47, stormed into Catch at the Old Fish Market in Weymouth on April 10, 2025, and threw the crustacean into the harbour. Restaurateur Sean Cooper stated the lobster, kept for educational purposes and named Ronnie, likely died from thermal shock due to the sudden temperature change and the force of the throw.

Smart admitted to criminal damage, though prosecutors initially considered charges including theft and assault. Cooper criticized the decision to accept a plea to a lesser charge, highlighting video evidence he found unambiguous and the lack of a promised meeting with police to discuss the case's handling. He asserted that the activist's anger was misdirected, as his restaurant is recognized for sustainable sourcing.

This was not Smart's first incident at the restaurant; she had previously attempted to gain entry to speak with Sir David Attenborough. The court heard the lobster was not for consumption and had been with the restaurant for two-and-a-half years. Judge Susan Evans described Smart's actions as misguided, noting the uncertainty of the lobster's survival.