Freedom Convoy organizer Pat King due to be sentenced today

Freedom Convoy organizer Pat King is facing sentencing today for his involvement in the disruptive protest that brought Ottawa’s downtown to a standstill for over three weeks in early 2022. Crown prosecutor Moiz Karimjee is pushing for a substantial penalty for King, who was convicted in November of five criminal charges, including disobeying court orders, mischief, and counselling to commit mischief and obstruct a peace officer.

The maximum sentence for a mischief conviction is 10 years, highlighting the seriousness of King’s actions. Justice Charles Hackland found that King played a significant role in leading a large convoy and utilized his social media presence to orchestrate and encourage disruptive activities. Evidence presented during the trial showcased King directing truckers to ignore a court injunction banning horn honking in the downtown area, as well as organizing a “slow roll” near the Ottawa International Airport and participating in blockades near Parliament Hill.

Although King was acquitted of three intimidation-related charges, Hackland noted that there was no evidence of threats of violence or property damage. King’s lawyer, Natasha Calvinho, expressed disappointment with the decision but emphasized King’s acquittal on intimidation charges as proof of his non-violent intentions.

King’s arrest in February 2022, which was live-streamed on social media, garnered national attention. Following his arrest, King underwent a lengthy bail process and was kept in custody over concerns of re-offending. He was eventually released in July 2022 under strict conditions, including limitations on his social media usage.

In August 2023, King faced another brief jail stint for allegedly breaching his bail conditions but was later released under tighter restrictions. Today’s sentencing marks 1,064 days since King’s initial arrest, underscoring the prolonged legal proceedings surrounding his case.

The impact of King’s sentencing will be closely watched, as it will set a precedent for future cases involving individuals organizing disruptive protests. The outcome of this case will not only hold King accountable for his actions but also serve as a reminder of the legal consequences of inciting civil unrest.