Freedom Convoy Organizers’ Criminal Trial Approaching Its Conclusion
The trial of Freedom Convoy organizers Tamara Lich and Chris Barber is set to reach its sixth day of closing arguments.
Lich and Barber are facing charges of mischief, intimidation, and counselling others to commit crimes for their involvement in organizing the large protest that took over downtown Ottawa for weeks in 2022.
Despite the seemingly simple charges, the trial has been complicated and lengthy.
Initially planned for about 16 days, the court has been bogged down by legal complexities, a vast amount of evidence, and delays in disclosure, extending the proceedings to almost a year.
The prosecution alleges that Lich and Barber incited the crowds to engage in illegal activities to exert pressure on the government to lift COVID-19 restrictions and vaccine mandates.
Lich’s defense team is expected to conclude their final arguments today, followed by the prosecution’s last opportunity to respond.