So there may be people that usually don't use cash, that made a small donation for something they believe in (a non violent protest), and are now unable to pay

So there may be people that usually don't use cash, that made a small donation for something they believe in (a non violent protest), and are now unable to pay for their food, rent, car gas, medication… All of this without any trial, without being able to defend/explain themself. How is this a democracy?