The Court of King's Bench in Lethbridge has delivered its sentencing for two of the "Coutts Three."
LETHBRIDGE: The Court of King's Bench in Lethbridge has delivered its sentencing for two of the “Coutts Three.” The sentences follow their convictions for mischief over $5,000 last April, arising from their involvement in the 2022 Coutts Border Protest. Gerhard (George) Janzen has been sentenced to a three-month community-based term, including 100 hours of community service, without house arrest or curfew restrictions. Marco Van Huigenbos has been ordered to serve 120 days in prison. The sentencing for Alex Van Herk has been adjourned to permit him time to retain new counsel.
Adam Blake-Gallipeau, Senior Litigator at The Democracy Fund and co-counsel for Mr. Janzen alongside Alan Honner commented:
"We believe that the outcome for Mr. Janzen was fair and demonstrates the balance between the right to protest and maintaining legal standards. His community-based sentence, free of house arrest or curfew restrictions, accounts for his unique situation within the context of these cases. We remain dedicated to advocating for the rights to peaceful assembly and free expression.”
The Democracy Fund has been at the forefront of advocating for those charged in relation to Convoy-related protests, emphasizing due process and the protection of democratic rights. TDF will continue to monitor the legal proceedings, including Van Herk's upcoming sentencing, with an unwavering commitment to justice and fairness for all involved.
About The Democracy Fund:
Founded in 2021, The Democracy Fund (TDF) is a Canadian charity dedicated to constitutional rights, advancing education and relieving poverty. TDF promotes constitutional rights through litigation and public education. TDF supports an access to justice initiative for Canadians whose civil liberties have been infringed by government lockdowns and other public policy responses to the pandemic.