Calgary Pastor Convicted of Harassment

A Calgary pastor, Derek Reimer, has been found guilty of criminal harassment and multiple breaches of bail conditions, while being acquitted of charges related to causing a disturbance during protests at library drag storytime events held between March 25 and April 2. The Alberta Court of Justice trial concluded on August 21, with Justice Karen Molle delivering the verdict the following day. Reimer was convicted for posting a video on Facebook that documented a conversation with a library manager regarding a drag reading event, which he used to rally his supporters to oppose the event. Additionally, he was found guilty of four counts of breaching bail conditions that prohibited him from attending such events or communicating with participants. However, the court dismissed two charges of causing a public disturbance, ruling that his actions did not constitute a criminal offense. Reimer's defense attorney, Andrew MacKenzie, expressed disappointment with the verdict, arguing that courts typically favor the accused regarding bail conditions. He criticized the court's interpretation of evidence, suggesting it misrepresented Reimer's intentions. Reimer himself described the court's decision as appalling, asserting that he adhered to the law during his release. The pastor's legal troubles began after his arrest on February 25, which Calgary police labeled a hate-motivated crime. Following the incident, Reimer was released on bail with strict conditions, including a 300-meter exclusion zone from LGBT community events. He is currently challenging a city bylaw that restricts protests near such events, claiming it infringes on his charter freedoms. The City of Calgary has defended the bylaw, stating it does not impede public protests unless they target individuals protected under the Alberta Human Rights Act.