Defence argues Crown is unfairly blaming Freedom Convoy leaders for actions of others in closing arguments
OTTAWA—Crown prosecutors are trying to hold Freedom Convoy organizers accountable for the actions of others, despite their calls for peaceful protests and cooperation with authorities, according to Tamara Lich’s attorney in Ottawa.
During the closing arguments of her trial on Aug. 23, defense lawyer Lawrence Greenspon stated, “The Crown is seeking to hold these leaders criminally responsible for the actions of unidentified individuals who were directed to the downtown core of Ottawa and were allowed to stay there for three weeks without any consequences.”
Chris Barber and Tamara Lich, key organizers of the Freedom Convoy protest in early 2022, face charges of mischief, intimidation, and incitement to break the law. Barber is additionally accused of urging others to defy a court order. The protest began in response to COVID-19 restrictions and vaccine mandates, resulting in a large gathering of trucks in downtown Ottawa.
Greenspon argued that prosecutors are trying to criminalize Lich’s behavior based on the location and the lawful objective that thousands of Canadians sought to achieve in Ottawa.
He pointed out that the Crown has disregarded the agreement reached between Lich and the City of Ottawa to reduce the protest’s footprint. Greenspon also criticized the Crown for prioritizing property rights over constitutionally protected freedoms of expression and assembly.
According to Greenspon, the Ottawa Police Service failed to address the protest effectively by directing vehicles to the downtown core and neglecting to enforce laws or bylaws to mitigate its impact.
He highlighted that none of the court cases cited by the Crown involved protesters being directed by police to a specific location and later prosecuted for their actions.
Greenspon also mentioned that the Crown omitted a quote from Justice Hugh McLean who, in issuing an injunction against honking horns during the protest, preserved the protesters’ right to engage in a peaceful and lawful demonstration.
Originally scheduled for 16 days, the trial has extended nearly a year due to delays and complex legal arguments.
