Organizers of an anti-mask rally that drew about 200 people to Victoria Park on the weekend are now facing charges.
London police announced Wednesday that charges against the three organizers have been laid under the Reopening Ontario Act. Police said they identified the organizers and warned them prior to the event that, if it went ahead, they could be charged.
The rally did go ahead on Sunday, November 22.
"Members of the London Police Service attended the rally, and confirmed that the number of participants exceeded provincial guidelines with respect to the numbers permitted for an outdoor gathering," police said in a news release issued Wednesday.
A 44-year-old woman, a 36-year-old woman, and a 37-year-old woman, all of London, have been charged with participating in an outdoor gathering which exceeded the number permitted and hosting an outdoor gathering which exceeded the number permitted.
They are to appear in court February 22, 2021.
"London police are reminding the public that hosting or participating in such events could result in charges being laid pursuant to the Reopening Ontario Act. Gathering limits are in place for the health and well-being of everyone, and we will not hesitate to take appropriate action when our community is put at risk," police said. "As the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic continues, messages from community partners are clear – do not host or attend large gatherings; limit in-person interactions; follow health and safety protocols; and find safe ways to connect with each other."
Anyone with information in relation to this incident is asked to call the London Police Service at (519) 661-5670 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Information can also be sent in online anonymously to www.londoncrimestoppers.com.
