Letter: Excited to see local podcaster finally receive his day in front of the courts

By Letter to the Editor on August 6, 2025.

Dear editor,

It has been said many times, “justice delayed is justice denied.”

I do not believe we are entirely forsaken yet, because there has finally been some movement in the court proceedings against the local podcaster Thomas Fougere.

After the past nine months with numerous previous appearances through an agent, a plea of not guilty has been made and a trial date set. In case one can not remember, the charges stem from his alleged actions in an altercation with police at the police station during a meeting for the neighbours of the Mustard Seed.

Who said what, was it right or wrong, is now simply a matter for the courts. Anyone can find the video of the two separate events and decide their own view in a court of public opinion. He has been charged with two counts: Cause a Disturbance and Obstructing a Peace Officer.

Of interest to myself is the delay and effort Mr. Fougere has endeavoured to seemingly stick it to a system he must feel abused him. I am certain he will attempt to explain it away with posturing and dramatization as he denounces his rights were infringed.

Here is the rub, from the outset the courts have offered him the absolute right to have his day in court and the matter tried before a Justice. In this circumstance the trial has been elected by the accused to be in French.

This is an interesting development in the courts as an effort to protect French language rights. A gesture to protect and provide for French speaking individuals of limited English capacity to fully understand the legal undertakings; I wholeheartedly support.

Mr. Fougere is completely functional in English as any of his lengthy video interactions would satisfy a test. I believe his intention and exercise are nefarious and detestable.

With all stated, I do look forward to the Jan. 9, 2026 trial. I will place it in my calendar and take the day off to be there. If for no other reason to voice my support for the police and my displeasure with the accused.

John Blackmore

Medicine Hat

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