Tamara Lich and Chris Barber, prominent individuals associated with the 2022 “Freedom Convoy,” have received conditional sentences, avoiding additional prison time. Earlier this year, Barber was convicted of mischief and encouraging others to defy a court order, while Lich was convicted of mischief. They were acquitted of several other charges.
Each of them has been given an 18-month conditional sentence: twelve months confined at home with limited weekly outings, followed by six months under a curfew starting at 10 p.m. Lich will receive credit for the 19 days spent in jail initially and an additional 30 days for breaching her bail conditions. Both Barber and Lich are also mandated to complete 100 hours of community service.
Lich’s attorney, Lawrence Greenspon, mentioned that they are contemplating an appeal against her conviction. He emphasized that the priority was to prevent her from spending any more time in jail, a goal that was successfully achieved. Barber’s defense lawyer, Diane Magas, expressed that her client respects the judge’s decision and finds it reasonable, stating that it aligns with their expectations.
The sentencing of Lich and Barber in Ottawa follows hearings held in July. Crown prosecutor Siobhain Wetscher had urged Justice Heather Perkins-McVey to impose significant sentences of eight years for Barber and seven for Lich, citing the profound impact of their actions during the Ottawa protests they orchestrated.
During the protests, Lich and Barber mobilized thousands of demonstrators to park vehicles in the city’s downtown area, resulting in prolonged gridlock. They also raised substantial funds to oppose the COVID-19 mandates issued by the federal Liberal government. Subsequently, the government invoked the Emergencies Act to disperse the protests.
Lich and Barber’s legal representation had pushed for an absolute discharge, arguing that an eight-year sentence would be excessive. An absolute discharge would have meant no criminal record for Lich.