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‘They were barricaded’: Defence begins case in trial for Freedom Convoy organizer
OTTAWA — The defence for Freedom Convoy organizer Pat King is arguing that protesters were trapped within downtown Ottawa when police moved to end the three-week demonstration in 2022.
That February, Ottawa police warned protesters they would face charges if they didn’t stop blocking streets, and King was one of those arrested during the operation.
He has pleaded not guilty to mischief, counselling others to commit mischief, obstructing police and other offences.
Defence lawyer Natasha Calvinho says all levels of government failed Ottawa residents — not King or anyone else who was “peacefully” protesting COVID-19 measures.