Pat King’s trial may have ended last week, but the prominent figure in the 2022 convoy protests is back behind bars after turning himself in to police amid allegations he breached his bail conditions.
King has pleaded not guilty to mischief, intimidation and other charges for his role in what became known as the Freedom Convoy.
During a brief court appearance on Wednesday, the Crown confirmed there was an “ongoing investigation” and additional charges were anticipated.
After his trial ended, King has broadcast online — something he had done occasionally since being released from custody in July 2022.
He was given specific permission to do this in order to raise funds for his legal expenses, but is not allowed to comment on the case.
In those broadcasts, King discussed the status of his sureties and his plans to sue the government following a possible victory in the courts.
He’s also spoken at length about his trial, which is expected to return Oct. 4 for a decision.
King to ‘vigorously defend’ himself
King arrived at the Ottawa Courthouse at just past 2 p.m. on Wednesday and shortly afterward was led away in handcuffs.
King didn’t make any comment as he entered the courthouse, but his lawyer, Natasha Calvinho, released a statement following his appearance.
She said there were allegations King had breached his bail conditions.
“Mr. King will be seeking a bail hearing at the earliest opportunity and intends to vigorously defend against any allegations that he breached his previous bail conditions,” Calvinho’s statement said.
One of the people responsible for monitoring King while he is out on bail also informed the court they no longer wanted to do so.
Has been in Alberta
King had been in Alberta and was appearing by video conference for the final days of his trial.
By Sunday, word had spread online among King’s supporters and followers that he would be turning himself in.
On Monday night, King told his supporters he would be travelling to Ottawa and “surrendering” to police because of “allegations of a breach.”
It’s expected King will seek to be released on bail the first opportunity — which likely isn’t until next week.