Trial of man in video of transphobic, racist HSR rant continues

A Hamilton man was back in court Monday after pleading guilty to assault during a threatening transphobic and racist rant on an HSR as the judge tries to determine what kind of sentence he will face.

The case has been ongoing since August, 2022 when 41-year-old Christopher Pretula videotaped his rant and posted it online after he accused one of the bus riders of kicking him.

The incident is believed to have taken place on August 1 on an HSR bus, in the area of Gage Park at the Lawrence Road entrance.

The video shows Pretula insulting two people with transphobic and homophobic slurs before directing his attention to others on the bus, including an older woman and a younger man who he directs a racist comment later in the video.

READ MORE: Hamilton police arrest man, 41, following disturbing transphobic, homophobic rant on HSR bus

He was charged by Hamilton police with assault and uttering threats shortly after. At the time, police said they were looking at the possibility of a hate crime charge.

On Monday, the crown presented more video in court that it said it plans to use in the sentencing hearing.

Defence lawyer Stephen De Witter asked for more time to view the new footage with Pretula and told the judge the latest video is something he would have wanted her to see.

The prosecution is seeking jail time ahead of his next court date schedule for Tuesday.