Three individuals, including a Wet’suwet’en leader, have received suspended jail sentences and community service after violating an injunction against obstructing work on the Coastal GasLink pipeline. The decision was made by B.C. Supreme Court Justice Michael Tammen, who described the suspended sentences as a form of judicial clemency aimed at promoting reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
The individuals, identified as Sleydo’ (also known as Molly Wickham), Shaylynn Sampson, and Corey Jocko, were found guilty of criminal contempt for their involvement in a blockade on Wet’suwet’en traditional territory in November 2021. The trio breached a 2019 injunction that prohibited people from impeding progress on the pipeline project.
Justice Tammen imposed suspended sentences on Sleydo’, Jocko, and Sampson, with Sleydo’ receiving a net sentence of 17 days, Jocko 12 days, and Sampson 9 days. These sentences will only be enforced if there are additional violations of the injunction within the next year. In addition to the suspended jail time, each individual must complete 150 hours of community service.
The prosecution had requested custodial sentences to uphold the rule of law and deter others from similar actions, citing social media posts encouraging participation in the blockade and the potential risks to both pipeline workers and law enforcement. The defense argued against jail time, emphasizing the need to consider the historical context and the unfulfilled promises outlined in agreements between Indigenous leaders and the government.
Despite acknowledging the rights violations during the arrests and the challenging conditions the individuals faced in police custody, Justice Tammen ultimately decided to suspend the implementation of the remaining jail sentences. The blockade, while causing delays, did not prevent the completion of the Coastal GasLink pipeline, which runs across northern British Columbia to an export terminal in Kitimat.
In closing statements, Sleydo’ emphasized the importance of Wet’suwet’en land, asserting that their connection to the land is integral to their identity and legal framework. The sentencing outcome reflects a balance between upholding the law and recognizing the unique circumstances and historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities.
