Recently a series of charges and fines, issued because of participation in the Freedom Convoy in February 2022 or in acting contrary to legislation related to COVID-19, have been dismissed by the courts.

Seven convoy supporters received a total of 49 charges including mischief, mischief to property, disobeying a lawful order, and obstruction of a peace officer, all of which were stayed due to lack of evidence citing the absence of key details such as the arresting officer’s notes. It is worth noting that all charges were filed after the implementation of the Emergencies Act, the justification of which has yet to be determined.

All seven individuals maintained their innocence and believe that the right to peaceful protest is essential for a healthy democracy.

In a similar success, fines totalling over $1 million issued to 14 individuals and businesses resulting from actions deemed contrary to the Quarantine Act and Reopening Ontario Act have also been dismissed. As with earlier rulings in favour of Pastor Arthur Pawlowski (against AHS), and a further 24 public health order tickets issued to three pastors in BC, the courts have reversed or dismissed these fines entirely.

These successes are thanks to these individuals, their legal teams and the support of organizations focused on righting the wrongs of our government and their supporters. Their strength and determination continue to provide further precedence for the remaining legal actions in play.

As we continue to see these heavy-handed efforts to undermine the rights and freedoms of Canadians overturned by our courts, we remain stalwart in support of our Charter and adamant in our resolve to uphold the integrity of human rights for all.

To read the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms post, click here