Testimony of former Ottawa police chief Sloly to continue at Emergencies Act inquiry
Posted October 30, 2022 11:44 am.
Last Updated October 31, 2022 6:24 am.
Former Ottawa police chief Peter Sloly is expected to continue his testimony this morning at the public inquiry investigating Ottawa’s use of the Emergencies Act during “Freedom Convoy” protests last winter.
Sloly appeared in front of the Public Order Emergency Commission on Friday and described disorganization and a lack of communication within the Ottawa Police during the occupation of the city’s downtown.
Other witnesses, including top Ontario Provincial Police officials, had blamed Sloly for failing to co-ordinate with other police forces to get the protests under control.
Sloly resigned amid widespread criticism on Feb. 15, the day after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau invoked the Emergencies Act.
The inquiry has so far painted a picture of conflict and confusion within police services and among all levels of government in the wake of the convoy’s arrival in Ottawa in late January.
Key protest organizers are expected to testify this week, beginning with Chris Barber, who is one of several people facing criminal charges related to their involvement.
Barber has been co-accused with Tamara Lich of criminal mischief, obstructing police, and counselling others to commit mischief and intimidation for his actions during the protest.