A crowd gathered outside the courthouse in Lethbridge ahead of the sentencing hearing for Artur Pawlowski, September 18, 2023. (Photo: LNN)

By LNN Staff

Calgary pastor sentenced to 60 days for role in Coutts border blockade

Sep 18, 2023 | 12:49 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – A Calgary pastor has received his sentence for his role in protests against COVID-19 health measures that blockaded the Coutts border crossing for more than two weeks.

Artur Pawlowski was sentenced to 60 days. However, the judge’s ruling in Lethbridge on Monday, September 18, 2023 included credit for 60 days already served.

This means that Pawlowski has zero days left to serve.

During the sentencing, Pawlowski’s defense said he had accepted his responsibility in his actions at the blockade in early 2022. The Crown noted that Pawlowski has a high risk of reoffending.

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The Crown was asking for a sentence of eight to 10 months, while the defense had asked for time served.

READ MORE: ‘The eyes of the world’; Trial of Calgary pastor charged in border blockade underway

In early May, Pawloski was found guilty of one count each of mischief and breaching a release order.

READ MORE: Calgary pastor found guilty on two border blockade charges

READ MORE: One charge stayed for Coutts convoy protester

Many supporters were seen outside the courthouse in Lethbridge during Monday’s proceedings.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

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