OPP seizes videotape of native standoff from CHtv

Carmela Fragomeni
Hamilton Spectator
(May 20, 2006)

[SISIS note: The following mainstream news article is provided for reference only, as an example of how mainstream media treats indigenous resistance to genocide. Mainstream media often presents biased and distorted information, lacking pertinent facts and/or context. Inclusion of this article on our site should not be considered an endorsement by SISIS.]

CH Television is fighting the OPP seizure of videotape it aired of a confrontation at the native standoff in Caledonia.

News director Mike Katrycz says the confiscation of the tape violates Canada's Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Katrycz said police arrived at the Hamilton station Monday with a search warrant for the homemade tape filmed by a Caledonia resident. They also wanted any documents related to it and its airing on May 10.

On legal advice, the station put the tape and material in an envelope in front of police and sealed it. Staff said they would challenge the seizure and police agreed not to open the envelope until the matter is heard in court, Katrycz said.

No date has been set for a court hearing.

The tape shows a confrontation at the Highway 6 bypass overpass at Highway 54 between some Caledonia residents and natives behind the barricade. It shows residents trying to dismantle the obstacle being confronted by people on the other side. At one point, someone on the native side throws a piece of wood that strikes a resident on the back.

Katrycz said police wanted the tape as evidence in case charges are laid in the incident.

"It's puzzling, to say the least," he said. "In our view, the OPP have been there for weeks. The police know where the barricades are."

The tape was given to CH by a source on condition of confidentiality and that the faces of those who tried to take apart the barricade be obscured.

"It's the first time we've had a search warrant specific to the identity of a source. That's why it's a great concern to us," Katrycz said. The station views this as a violation of the Charter's freedom of expression.

"We're baffled and disturbed by this, if it is an attempt to put a chill on our coverage or on the people of Caledonia to talk to us."

cfragomeni@thespec.com
905-526-3392