Tamara Lich, a prominent figure in the “Freedom Convoy,” is appealing her conviction for misconduct related to the 2022 Ottawa demonstration. In April, Lich was found guilty of misconduct, while her co-accused Chris Barber was convicted of misconduct and inciting others to defy a court order. Although acquitted on several charges, the court determined that their actions shifted from peaceful protest to illegal behavior.
Both received conditional sentences recently, avoiding additional prison time. Following a protracted 42-day trial that concluded years after their arrest, an appeal was anticipated, given Lich’s prior indication that she would not accept a guilty verdict.
Lich’s attorney, Lawrence Greenspon, has filed documents with the Ontario Court of Appeal arguing that the guilty verdict was unfounded and lacked evidentiary support. Greenspon asserts that the judge erroneously relied on evidence pertaining to Barber in assessing Lich’s culpability. He further contends that Lich advocated for peace during the protest, a right safeguarded by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Lich is requesting the appeal court to overturn her conviction and grant her an acquittal, or alternatively, to annul the guilty verdict and order a new trial. Meanwhile, Barber’s sentencing process is ongoing as prosecutors aim to confiscate the truck he used to travel to Ottawa for the 2022 protests. Due to delays in the truck seizure proceedings, Barber has additional time to pursue an appeal.