Arrests in Bloor bike lane protests called 'draconian' by lawyers

Four people arrested during protests against the removal of bike lanes in Etobicoke and their lawyers said Tuesday the detentions were “draconian,” alleging Toronto police laid “heavy-handed criminal charges” to deter future protests. Toronto police say the charges were laid based on individual actions, not to discourage dissent. The arrests occurred in October during daily protests against the Ontario government’s removal of bike lanes on a 1.2-kilometre section of Bloor Street W., which was completed last Friday. Charges range from obstructing police to mischief and theft under $5,000. Lawyers also allege release conditions prohibit clients from attending any protests, infringing on Charter rights. Toronto police spokesperson Stephanie Sayer said demonstrators were told unlawful obstruction or interference with officers could lead to arrest, and the hate crime unit’s involvement does not indicate hate crime investigations. One accused, Aly Vanwyck-Smart, who uses a wheelchair, was arrested after refusing to leave a curb barrier. Community members raised $40,000 for legal fees.