REGINA – Anti-gay activists Peter Labarbera and Bill Whatcott were found not guilty of mischief after refusing to leave the University of Regina during a demonstration last April.
“I was expecting to win but, of course, you never want to be presumptuous. I’m very happy with the judge’s decision,” said Whatcott, moments after stepping out of the Regina provincial court office on Smith Street Monday afternoon.
Judge Marylynne Beaton found the Crown failed to prove the two men interrupted or interfered with the use, enjoyment, or operation of the university.
The two made headlines after being arrested on the campus.
Whatcott said he plans on telling Labarbera, who was in the United States at the time, the “good news” today.
“I think this is a good step for Mr. Whatcott and other individuals that may have a perspective that’s maybe not the most common perspective. They have the opportunity to have their voice and say their piece as well,” said defence lawyer Michael Weger.
Despite the arrest and trial, Whatcott said he won’t change his method of relying his message.
“I plan on being on the U of R campus before January is through. You can count on that, unless I get hit by a car,” said Whatcott.
“I’ll make up a flyer just special for this occasion. I’ll call the students’ union and they will have the option to give me a table and if they don’t give me a table, I’ll show up at the campus with my own table.”
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