Hamilton Police charge 3 anti-lockdown protestors in front of city hall

CP24 reports that the group "Hugs over Masks" organized the Hamilton protest against COVID-19 restrictions, which took place on Sunday, February 7.

According to police, the protesters entered the forecourt of Hamilton City Hall while maskless. Both the city of Hamilton and the province of Ontario have mandatory mask policies.

Those charged are all from Hamilton, including a 52-year-old man, a 32-year-old woman and a 49-year-old man. Police have not released their names.

The three protesters now face multiple charges including failing to comply with an order made during a declared emergency, trespassing and obstructing a peace officer.

In a news release, Hamilton Police said that they "are reminding the public that participation in such events could result in charges being laid pursuant to the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act."

Ontario remains under a stay-at-home order, imposed by the government after a spike of COVID-19 cases due to gatherings during the Christmas season.