More charges laid against convoy demonstrators, including weapon possession, assault
Posted Feb 21, 2022 09:43:00 PM.
Police continue make more arrests and lay more charges against protesters who took part in the nearly month-long truck convoy demonstration that occupied Ottawa's streets.
According to a Ottawa police announcement made on Monday, February 21, some protesters have attempted to return to the secured area after arrest following police action over the weekend.
A Quebec man was arrested on Friday, February 18 for obstructing police, mischief obstructing property and mischief.
He was released with no charges.
One day later, however, he was arrested for disobeying a lawful order, obstructing police, mischief obstructing property and mischief.
He was released via undertaking with boundary conditions.
A woman from Southern Ontario was also arrested on Friday for mischief. She was released with no charges.
A day later, the woman was arrested for disobeying a lawful order, obstructing police, mischief obstructing property and mischief.
The woman was released via undertaking with boundary conditions.
As of 8 a.m. Monday, police have made 196 arrests in total.
Of those arrested, 110 were charged with various offences, including:
- disobeying lawful court order
- obstructing/resisting a peace officer
- assault
- mischief obstructing property
- mischief
- causing disturbance by fighting/shouting/swearing
- assault police
- dangerous operation of a motor vehicle
- possessing a weapon
A total of 115 vehicles have also been towed to date.
While businesses are free to open and patrons able to shop, people may still notice an increased police presence in the area.
“Residents may travel to the secured area if they have a lawful reason such as they live there, work there or are shopping and visiting businesses,” the police said in their announcement. “Police checkpoints will remain in place and you will be asked your reason for travelling within the area.”
However, the ByWard Market is no longer in the secured area.
The secured area, police said, has been reduced in size, from Somerset Street West to Parliament Hill, Bronson Avenue to the Rideau Canal.
