Pat King Sentenced to Three Months House Arrest for Role in Ottawa Convoy Protest

Pat King Sentenced to Three Months House Arrest for Role in Ottawa Convoy Protest

Pat King, a prominent figure in the 2022 convoy protest that paralyzed downtown Ottawa, was sentenced to three months of house arrest on Wednesday. Justice Charles Hackland of the Ontario Superior Court acknowledged King's leadership role in the protest but also considered his efforts to de-escalate the situation and the potential chilling effect a harsher sentence could have on political expression.

two counts of disobeying a court order, mischief, counselling to commit mischief, and counselling to obstruct a public or peace officer. He was acquitted of three intimidation-related charges.

Justice Hackland recognized King's significant responsibility for the turmoil in Ottawa but also noted his attempts to calm the situation, including urging protesters to leave downtown and regroup elsewhere. The judge acknowledged that this request was ignored and that King was on the periphery of the protest's leadership once it arrived in Ottawa. He also highlighted King's online content, which encouraged avoiding violence and obeying the law, potentially mitigating a worse situation.

In rejecting the Crown's request for a 10-year sentence, the judge expressed concern about the potential chilling effect on political expression. He emphasized the importance of legitimate public discourse regarding concerns about government overreach and vaccine mandates.

Following the proceedings, King's supporters embraced him in the courtroom. While unable to comment due to bail conditions, his lawyer, Natasha Calvinho, praised the judge's ruling, arguing that a 10-year sentence would have essentially made King a political prisoner. She emphasized that King should not be held responsible for the actions of others.

King will return to Alberta to serve his sentence. The Crown prosecutor declined to comment, and the Ontario Attorney-General's office offered no statement on the case.