Wynd Kaufmyn jailed for OpenAI protest

Wynd Kaufmyn, a 69-year-old retired teacher and activist from Berkeley, has become the first person incarcerated for a protest specifically targeting artificial intelligence development. Kaufmyn surrendered to authorities in San Francisco following a conviction related to a February 2025 demonstration at OpenAI’s headquarters.

As part of the group StopAI, Kaufmyn and other activists blocked the entrance to the company’s offices to protest the rapid pursuit of artificial superintelligence (ASI), which they describe as an “existential threat to humanity.” Kaufmyn was found guilty of trespassing, obstructing business activities, and resisting a public officer. She was sentenced to 14 days in jail, though she is expected to serve approximately half that time under California law.

The case has intensified the global debate regarding AI safety. While Kaufmyn expressed that it is “unconscionable” for experts to pursue these technologies despite known dangers, San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins stated the verdict sends a clear message that “public safety cannot be sacrificed.” The incident follows growing concerns from researchers and political figures, including Senator Bernie Sanders, regarding the potential for uncontrolled AI models to create new biological weapons or other systemic risks.