Tamara Lich, a prominent figure in the “Freedom Convoy,” is challenging her mischief conviction related to the 2022 Ottawa protest. Lich was convicted of mischief in April, while her co-accused, Chris Barber, was found guilty of both mischief and inciting others to disregard a court order. The court acquitted them of several other charges but determined that their actions crossed the boundary from peaceful protest to criminal behavior.
Both Lich and Barber received conditional sentences last month, avoiding additional jail time. Following a lengthy 42-day trial that concluded three years after their arrests, Lich’s decision to appeal was expected, as she had indicated her refusal to accept a guilty verdict even before the trial commenced.
In documents submitted to the Ontario Court of Appeal, Lich’s lawyer, Lawrence Greenspon, argues that the guilty verdict was unjustified and lacked sufficient evidence support. Greenspon also claims that the judge erroneously used evidence applicable only to Barber in assessing Lich’s case. Additionally, Greenspon asserts that Lich advocated for peace during the protest, and her actions were within the boundaries of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Lich is requesting the appeal court to overturn her conviction and grant her an acquittal or to annul the guilty finding and order a new trial. Meanwhile, Barber’s sentencing is ongoing, as Crown prosecutors are seeking to confiscate the truck he used to travel to Ottawa during the 2022 protests. Due to delays in the arguments regarding the truck seizure, Barber has more time to pursue an appeal.