A Calgary pastor has been sentenced to 60 days in jail for his involvement in the Coutts border blockade in February 2022. Artur Pawlowski was found guilty of mischief and breaching a release order related to protests against COVID-19 public health measures.
Pawlowski has accepted his responsibility for his actions during the blockade, according to his defence. However, the Crown argued that he poses a high risk of reoffending.
The protests at Coutts, Alberta, resulted in the main border crossing into the United States being blocked for over two weeks. Pawlowski’s impassioned speech to truckers during this time allegedly fueled unrest and persuaded them to prolong the blockade.
Of the three charges brought against Pawlowski, one count of destroying essential infrastructure without lawful right was stayed. As part of his sentence, Pawlowski will serve 60 days in jail, but with 60 days already served, he has no additional time left to serve.