Coutts protest supporters shut down traffic at courthouse

By Ry Clarke - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on October 5, 2022.

Herald photo by Ry Clarke Police try to disperse protestors from obstructing a tow truck trying to towing two illegally parked semi's on Tuesday morning outside the Lethbridge courthouse.

Lethbridge Police had to shut down traffic around the downtown core near the courthouse at 320 4 St. South on Tuesday as protestors flocked to the streets in the early morning showing support for Mark Van Huigenbos, Alex Van Herk, and Gerhard Janzen.

Associated with the Coutts blockade earlier this year, the three are charged with mischief by obstructing, interrupting or interfering with the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property.

Access to 4 St. South between 3 Ave and 4 Ave was closed due to two semi trucks which were parked in front of the courthouse obstructing traffic flow.

Tow trucks were called to remove the vehicles but had to turn away after confrontation with protestors over the legitimacy of their right to be there. Traffic flow was pushed back further as more protestors arrived adding to large masses on and around the area.

“We are just peacefully protesting, showing support to the people that are going into the courthouse,” said Gerwin Van Huigenbos, who was present as part of the crowd at the courthouse. “(Law enforcement) was going to tow vehicles, even though they are parked 100 per cent legally.”

Officers on scene said the two semi trucks were parked in spots that did not accommodate the size of the vehicles, noting that other semi’s that had gathered were parked on the side streets around the building and there was no issue with those locations.

The flow of traffic was blocked until around noon when congestion around the courthouse began to clear. Lethbridge Police Service said in a statement that the protest occurred without incident.

The crowd was sizeable, as dozens of people showed up to the courthouse to show support for the three charged in connection with the Coutts blockade.