Ottawa Police Services issues release: Leave downtown or get arrested
Following yesterday’s resignation of Ottawa Police Chief Peter Sloly, the OPS issued the release below on Wednesday morning. This is in contrast to the message being delivered by Freedom Convoy 2022 organizer Tamara Lich, who has asked protesters to “hold the line.”
“FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, February 16, 2022 10:30 am
(Ottawa)—You must leave the area now. Anyone blocking streets, or assisting others in the blocking streets, are committing a criminal offence and you may be arrested. You must immediately cease further unlawful activity or you will face charges. If you are arrested you may be released on bail depending on factors contained in Part XVI of the Criminal Code.
The people of Ottawa are being denied the lawful use, enjoyment and operation of their property and you are causing businesses to close. That is mischief under the Criminal Code.
Charges and/or convictions related to unlawful activity associated with the demonstration may lead to denial in crossing the USA border.
The Federal Emergencies Act allows for the regulation or prohibition of travel to, from or within any specified area. This means that anyone coming to Ottawa for the purpose of joining the ongoing demonstration is breaking the law. The act also provides police with a number of measures including the ability to seize vehicles that are part of this demonstration.
Ontario law (EMCPA) now prohibits interference with any critical infrastructure including 400-series highways, railways, airports and international border crossings. It prohibits you from preventing someone from travelling to or from walkways, bridges and highways (other than 400 series highways) or preventing anyone from using them. It also prohibits someone from seriously interfering with the safety, health or well-being of members of the public.
Anyone who commits these illegal actions could face fines or be required to appear in court. Commercial vehicle drivers’ licences and private drivers’ licences can be suspended or revoked.”
