The Ontario Court of Appeal has overturned Pat King’s acquittal on intimidation charges, ruling the Freedom Convoy organizer guilty and ordering a new sentencing hearing. The decision stems from his role in the 2022 protests that paralyzed downtown Ottawa for over three weeks.
Freedom Convoy Leader Faces New Sentencing
King was initially convicted of five counts, including mischief and disobeying a court order, receiving a 12-month conditional sentence. The Crown had sought a 10-year term. The appeal court found the trial judge erred in law, reinstating one count of intimidation.
Court Describes Convoy as “Co-ordinated Attack”
A three-judge panel called the 2022 demonstration a “co-ordinated, targeted attack on Ottawa residents aimed at coercing change through highly disruptive criminal conduct.” The ruling marks a significant development in the legal fallout from the protests.
King’s original trial saw him acquitted on three intimidation charges. The appeal court’s decision now shifts focus to his upcoming sentencing, with details of the new hearing yet to be announced.
