To the editor:
I am writing regarding Premier Christy Clarks Guest Shot, headlined Rioters will be brought to justice, on Page A8 of the June 22 edition of the Free Press.
Surely, with Ms. Clark’s solemn assurances, there’s nothing to worry about the “firm” hand of our justice system meting out our unique brand of Canadian justice.
Irrespective of court-funding problems, Canada’s all-purpose Charter of Rights and Freedoms will no doubt come in handy for all those who, in response to being charged with criminal conduct during their post-playoff love-in, will claim having their Charter Rights to “free” expression violated.
After all, that’s the Canadian way, assuring none of the looters and arsonists will see the inside of a jail, but instead will have to endure the wrath of Canada’s tough judicial system by being made to suffer the indignity of house arrest and the severe punishment of conditionally suspended sentences.
Indeed, can a class action suit against the City of Vancouver be far behind on behalf of all rioters whose pictures were taken without their explicit consent, in clear violation of their Charter Rights to personal “privacy.”
When everything is said and done, the rioters will emerge unscathed as the true “victims” of Vancouver’s 2011 post-game riot.
E.W. Bopp
Tsawwassen
