Tamara Lich, a prominent figure in the “Freedom Convoy,” is challenging her conviction for mischief related to the 2022 Ottawa protest. In April, Lich was convicted of mischief, while her co-accused Chris Barber was found guilty of both mischief and inciting others to disobey a court order. Despite being acquitted on several charges, the court determined that their actions transitioned from peaceful protest to criminal behavior.
Both individuals received conditional sentences last month, avoiding further incarceration. Following a protracted 42-day trial that concluded three years after their initial charges, an appeal was expected, particularly since Lich had expressed her refusal to accept a guilty verdict even before the trial commenced.
In the appeal documents submitted to the Ontario Court of Appeal, Lich’s legal representative, Lawrence Greenspon, argues that the guilty verdict was unjustified and lacked evidential support. Greenspon contends that the judge incorrectly relied on evidence admissible only against Barber in reaching conclusions about Lich. Additionally, Greenspon asserts that Lich advocated for peace during the protest, and her actions were within the bounds of protection guaranteed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Lich is requesting the appeal court to overturn her conviction and grant her an acquittal or to nullify the guilty verdict and order a new trial. Meanwhile, Barber’s sentencing has been postponed as Crown prosecutors are pursuing the seizure of the truck he utilized to travel to Ottawa during the 2022 demonstrations. This delay provides Barber with additional time to pursue an appeal while awaiting the resolution of the truck seizure proceedings.