Three individuals, including a Wet’suwet’en leader, received suspended jail sentences and community service for violating an injunction related to the Coastal GasLink pipeline project. B.C. Supreme Court Justice Michael Tammen described the suspended sentences as a form of judicial clemency, emphasizing the importance of reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
The defendants, Sleydo’ (Molly Wickham), Shaylynn Sampson, and Corey Jocko, were found guilty of criminal contempt for their involvement in a blockade on Wet’suwet’en traditional territory. Following their arrest in November 2021, they were sentenced to net jail terms ranging from 9 to 17 days, with the condition that the jail time would only be served if there are further breaches within a year. Additionally, each individual must complete 150 hours of community service.
While the prosecution argued for jail time to uphold the rule of law and deter similar actions, the defense advocated for time served, highlighting concerns over excessive force used during the arrests. Justice Tammen acknowledged breaches of the defendants’ Charter rights during the arrest and condemned offensive comments made by police officers.
The court proceedings also delved into the historical context, with the defense referencing past agreements and the failure to implement them effectively. Justice Tammen recognized the impact of colonization’s legacy on the case and opted to suspend the remaining jail sentences in a bid to promote reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
The Coastal GasLink pipeline, despite facing delays due to the blockade, continued its operations and exported natural gas to Asia from northern British Columbia. Sleydo’ reiterated the importance of Wet’suwet’en land rights, emphasizing the deep connection between the community and their ancestral territory.