An Alberta pastor who, along with his brother, was found guilty of contempt after deliberately violating COVID-19 health orders, told a judge that he is a political prisoner who is being persecuted by Alberta Health Services.
Artur Pawlowski said during a seven-minute statement at his sentencing hearing Tuesday that he and his brother, Dawid, have done nothing wrong.
“I am here before this court as a political prisoner of conscience,” Adam Germain told Judge. “The AHS and politicians have found a new way to sanction anyone who opposes their unconstitutional medical tyranny. They hate the idea that they have been exposed for who they really are: liars, hypocrites and cheats, “he said.
“I have heard from my grandparents about similar tactics from the Nazi era, which persecuted churches and clergy. Canada has fallen. Sure they can lock us up and throw away the key, but our political imprisonment will scream even louder about hypocrisy. “
The Pawlowskis, both from Calgary, were arrested in May and charged with organizing an illegal gathering, as well as promoting and attending an illegal gathering. They had been holding religious services that violated the rules on masking and physical distancing.
The arrests came after court orders were granted allowing Alberta Health Services and police to charge anyone who advertised meetings that would violate health restrictions.
READ MORE: AHS Attorney Seeks Jail Time for Calgary Pastor and Brother for Violating COVID-19 Rules
At Monday’s sentencing hearing, the healthcare provider asked that the pastor be jailed for 21 days and that his brother be sentenced to 10 days. The court is also asked to fine Artur Pawlowski $ 2,000 and impose $ 15,000 in costs.
Sarah Miller, who represents the Pawlowskis, said there is no need to incarcerate her clients.
“This is a civil process that is designed to enforce court orders and that is exactly what has happened. As for general deterrence, they have been deterred. They have spent their time in jail, ”he said.
“A fine is more than reasonable to penalize any of the Pawlowski in this case. There is no need to incarcerate them. “
Germain said he will announce his decision on October 13.
Watch below: (As of May 2021) Calgary police arrested and charged brothers Artur Pawlowski and Dawid Pawlowski with organizing an illegal in-person meeting Saturday during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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© 2021 The Canadian Press
Reference-globalnews.ca