DEFIANT KRAWCZYK SUPPORTERS STAGE A SIT IN AT B-C SUPREME COURT

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Vigil for Harriet

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Over 120 protestors crowded the steps of the B.C. Supreme Court this morning as environmental activist and great grandmother, Betty Krawczyk, received a 10 month sentence for her involvement in the protest at Eagle Ridge Bluffs last May.

This is Krawczyk’s 7th conviction for environmental protest. Judge Brenda Brown noted that the 78 year old Krawczyk is at high risk to re-offend and that although she served nearly two months in police custody last summer by court order, she would not have that time taken off her sentence.

Most of Krawczyk’s supporters were unable to hear the sentencing because of delays at security. There was a heavy police and security presence at the courthouse today, much more than usual for a case of this nature.

The proceeding took little more than 15 minutes. By 9:30 most supporters moved outside to the steps of the courthouse and began chanting, amid drums and “free betty” signs, “Shame! Shame! Shame!”

Many supporters were upset over the stringent security measures taken today. They were told by sheriffs to take their questions and complaints to the court registry in the main lobby.

Shortly before 10am, between 15 and 20 protestors sat in front of the doors to the registry, demanding answers. A line of armed sheriffs blocked the entrance, allowing only lawyers through. Within a few minutes, the building was sealed. Elevators were shut down, stairwells closed; even the women’s washroom was on lock down.

TV cameras remained outside with a number of protestors. A few reporters were able to remain inside the mayhem; however, the members of the impromptu sit-in were defiant and uncooperative with them. Many of them taunted the journalists who tried to ask them questions. One protestor said “We are not here so you can spin your story and make us look like criminals, we are here for justice.”

However, they prevented justice from happening for many others. Some of the scheduled trials and proceedings were put on hold during the two hour protest as many people were unable to gain access to the building.

At 11am, a team of VPD officers arrived, and the Sheriffs delivered an injunction. The protestors had 60 seconds to vacate the building, or be arrested. Two men were taken into custody while the other protestors obliged. They continued their protest outside until noon.