Justice Yamauchi heard submissions on sentencing for the "Coutts Three" and adjourned proceedings until 2 pm MT on January 10.
LETHBRIDGE: Marco Van Huigenbos and George Janzen - two men found guilty last year of mischief over $5,000 arising out of the 2022 Freedom Convoy protest in Coutts - were in Court yesterday for sentencing. TDF Lawyers were present to provide submissions. (Alex Van Herk chose to dispense with his lawyer and is seeking new counsel.)
The Crown prosecutor, Steven Johnston, argued that both men should receive prison time for their roles in blocking the highway. He suggested that Mr. Van Huigenbos be sentenced to nine months and Janzen six months in prison. He stated that Mr. Van Huigenbos was more to blame than Mr. Janzen because of his leadership role.
The lawyers for George Janzen, Alan Honner and TDF senior litigation counsel Adam Blake-Gallipeau, argued that jail time was not appropriate given the nature of the offence and the character of the men. They noted that Mr. Janzen was not in a leadership position during the protest, is a family man and respected member of his community, and is remorseful for his conduct. Mr. Honner reviewed the law with respect to sentencing for similar cases, and argued that Mr. Janzen should receive a conditional discharge or, at most, a minor custodial sentence to be served on weekends. Mr. Janzen then gave a brief speech to the Court in which he said that he expressed his regret for the damage he caused to the fabric of the community.
Justice Yamauchi adjourned the Court until 2 pm MT, January 10, stating that he would need time to review submissions.
UPDATE:
Court passes sentence on Marco Van Huigenbos and George Janzen.
Justice Yamauchi delivered his judgment today, sentencing Marco Van Huigenbos to 120 days in jail. George Janzen was given 90 days in jail and a conditional sentence order, so he will serve his time in the community. He must also complete 100 hours of community service and abide by certain conditions. However, as long as he does not breach these conditions, he will not be incarcerated. Both defendants were also ordered to pay a $200 fine.
Alex Van Herk has yet to be sentenced: he is in the process of obtaining a new lawyer and will return to court on a future date.