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A London man has been acquitted on a charge of criminal harassment stemming from his interaction with two dads and their children at an event during which drag queens were reading books to kids.
Bubba Pollock, 35, was charged over the incident that occurred on April 29, 2023, in the parking lot behind the Parkhill public library, where a so-called drag queen story time event was being held – drawing protesters like Pollock and counter-protesters.
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Tuesday, Justice George Orsini found Pollock not guilty.
“I am unable to conclude beyond a reasonable doubt that (the men) had the requisite fear for their safety or that of their children as a result of Mr. Pollock’s conduct,” the judge said in his ruling.
But the judge had harsh words for Pollock, whom the men testified had approached them as they entered the event and called them “pedos” and “groomers” while at one point blocking their path.
“Although individuals such as Mr. Pollock have a lawful right to protest, his conduct, occurring as it did in the presence of two young children and involving a verbal attack on their parents, was particularly shameful,” Orsini said in his ruling.
“It has absolutely no social utility and did nothing to promote the common good.”
Drag queen story time events have become flashpoints in a broader public debate over transgender rights and youth. Supporters believe they allow children to become more understanding of transgender citizens, while critics slam them as inappropriate for youngsters.
During the trial, defence lawyer Laura Ellis argued protests can become heated and “being a jerk” isn’t a criminal offence. She asked the judge to “be cautious about a dangerous precedent being set here by criminalizing yelling at someone at a protest.”
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