The Montrealer accused of paralyzing traffic on the Jacques-Cartier Bridge by climbing the structure to denounce fossil fuels was released on bail without being silenced, as the Crown requested.
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“I have difficulty seeing how the protection of the public would be in danger if he spoke about the fact that he was accused,” judge André Perreault ruled this Thursday at the Montreal courthouse.
The magistrate was speaking in the case of Olivier Huard, a professional climber accused of mischief and obstruction in connection with his coup last week.
Olivier Huard is accused of having climbed the Jacques-Cartier Bridge on October 22, 2024, completely paralyzing traffic. Screenshot taken from YouTube.
Screenshot taken from Youtube
Waste of time and money
Accompanied by another individual, the 47-year-old accused blocked the bridge for six hours, causing massive traffic jams for tens of thousands of motorists and causing the cancellation of hundreds of medical appointments.
“The Société du Pont Jacques-Cartier estimates its losses at more than $40,000,” explained Me Patricia Alexandre, of the Crown. On the police side, it cost $16,000 for 28 police officers, including 10 from the Tactical Intervention Group [communément appelé SWAT].»
Without regretting the actions with which he is accused, Huard said he was aware of the inconvenience caused.
“I will assume the consequences of my actions,” said Olivier Huard, saying he was committing civil disobedience.
He then explained that his group was not limited to committing this type of stunt, but that the impact is less.
“We publish videos, we meet politicians,” explained Huard. I even wrote an environmental platform for a political party, I submitted briefs to the National Assembly. We see the effects of the climate crisis, villages are burning, there are floods… We no longer know what to do…”
Demonstrators came to show their support for Olivier Huard, under heavy police surveillance. There was no overflow.
Photo MARIO BEAUREGARD, AGENCE QMI
Word also liberated
The judge believes, however, that he should look at the impact that his actions have on others.
“I believe him when he says he has the interests of his fellow citizens at heart,” said the magistrate. My contention is that his eyes are so focused on his cause that he minimizes the negative impacts his actions may have.”
Despite this, he was able to be released on bail, with the judge convinced that Huard will respect his conditions, which are much lighter than those of his co-defendants. Unlike them, he will be able to speak about his accusations, and he will be able to participate in demonstrations and gatherings. Imposing this condition would be too restrictive, the judge ruled, affirming that many gatherings on public roads are harmless.
On the other hand, he will no longer be able to be on the Jacques-Cartier Bridge, except to cross it in a means of transport.
And he will not be able to walk around with climbing equipment, except for his work in construction and high pruning, or to give climbing training.
He will return to court in January for further proceedings.
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