Twenty charges laid in anti-lockdown protests over the weekend: Hamilton police

Hamilton police and city bylaw officers laid 20 charges following two anti-lockdown protests in the city over the weekend.

The first protest was Saturday, in the area of Kenilworth Ave. N and Barton St. E. Police say there were over 400 people in attendance.

The next day, about 45 people gathered for a “Hugs over Masks” event in the area of Bay St. and Main St. downtown.

“Both events were protesting the current COVID-19 restrictions and the majority of individuals were not wearing a mask or face covering,” said a police news release noting that organizers were present at both events. 

Police say participating in such events could result in charges being laid pursuant to the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. 

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