Ottawa Police Hand Out Flyers Threatening To Arrest Protesters

Flyers were printed on Ottawa Police Service letterhead and distributed to pedestrians and motorists in downtown Ottawa. The message’s header states that it is a “notice for demonstration participants”.

You should leave immediately. Blocking streets or aiding others in blocking streets is a federal offense and can result in you being arrested. If you are arrested, you must stop any further illegal activity. Depending on the factors in Part XVI, you might be released on bail if you are arrested.

You are closing down businesses and denying Ottawa residents the legal enjoyment, lawful use, and operation of their properties. This is criminal code mischief.

The USA may deny entry to anyone who is convicted or charged with unlawful activity related to the demonstration.

Federal Emergencies Act permits travel restrictions or prohibitions to be placed on the books. Anyone who comes to Ottawa to participate in the ongoing demonstration is violating the law. This act gives police the power to seize vehicles and take them into custody.

The Ontario law (EMCPA), does not prohibit interference with critical infrastructure, including railways, airports, and 400-series highways. You cannot prevent anyone from using them. It also prohibits anyone from interfering in the safety, well-being, or health of any member of the public.

These illegal acts can result in fines and/or a requirement to appear before a court. Both private and commercial drivers’ licenses could be revoked or suspended.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau invoked Monday’s Emergencies Act, calling the Freedom Convoy in Ottawa an “illegal occupation”. He repeatedly called the peaceful protest in Canada’s capital city, built on civil disobedience, “not peaceful.”

Premier Doug Ford declared a “state emergency” in the province on Friday.