Death threats against Prime Minister Justin Trudeau uttered on social media have two Alberta men in hot water.
On May 10, INSET (RCMP Federal Policing Integrated National Security Enforcement Team) received information a user of the social media platform “X”, formerly known as Twitter, had allegedly posted threats to kill Trudeau. On June 6, Mason John Baker, 23, a resident of Calgary, was charged with uttering threats against a person contrary to section 264.1(1)(a) of the Criminal Code.
June 7, INSET received information a YouTube account user had allegedly posted threats to kill Trudeau, Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland and New Democrat Leader Jagmeet Singh. On June 13, Garry Belzevick, 67, a resident of Edmonton, was charged with three counts of uttering threats against a person contrary to section 264.1(1)(a) of the Criminal Code.
Baker is scheduled to appear at the Alberta Court of Justice in Calgary on July 23. Belzevick is scheduled to appear at the Alberta Court of Justice in Edmonton on July 25.
“In the digital age, where so many interactions occur online and are perceived to be anonymous, there is a belief that virtual actions and words do not have consequences. When these virtual actions or words cross the boundaries of Charter-protected speech and constitute criminal activity, police will investigate thoroughly to hold those responsible accountable,” commented Insp. Matthew Johnson, Acting Officer in Charge of RCMP Federal Policing INSET, Northwest Region.
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