"Freedom Convoy" organizer Pat King's criminal trial ended late last month, but he is in court again today after the Crown accused him of breaching his bail conditions. King arrives for his trial at the courthouse in Ottawa, on Thursday, May 16, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Spencer Colby
OTTAWA – “Freedom Convoy” organizer Pat King was released on bail today after spending more than a week in jail on Crown allegations that he breached his bail conditions.
King, whose criminal trial ended last month, flew from his home in Alberta to Ottawa last week to turn himself into police after learning of the allegations.
King’s criminal charges stem from his role in organizing the 2022 Freedom Convoy protest in Ottawa, and a judge is expected to deliver his verdict in October.
King appeared before the same trial judge today, who agreed to release him on bail with stricter conditions, especially regarding his use of social media.
King left the Ottawa courthouse visibly cheerful, and was greeted by his girlfriend and supporters upon his exit.
He apologized to them for “stressing them out,” and many stopped to give him a hug and to try and get a shot of him for their social media livestreams.
King was a prominent figure in the massive demonstration that rolled into Ottawa in 2022, which saw protesters entrench themselves on the streets of downtown Ottawa for three weeks.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 9, 2024.
