[van-announce] The Woodwards 58

[Friends of the Woodwards Squat]

Summary Report from the Courthouse
21 September 2002

The 58 residents of the Woodwards Squat who were arrested this morning were 
brought before a judge in twelve groups of three, four and five, between 
11:15am and 1:50pm. The exceptions to this procedure were the four people 
treated as minors. These four appeared individually after 1:50pm. The 
conditions for their release were negotiated in closed chambers with a 
representative from Social Services. The prisoners were not permitted to 
speak with legal council prior to their appearance in the courtroom and were 
prohibited from speaking with council as a group.

Several of the native leaders had their shoes confiscated while being held 
in cells then forced to appear in the courtroom without them.

Given the choice between remaining in captivity until November 7th, the date 
of their hearing, and agreeing to four conditions of release, 53 of the 54 
adult residents chose the latter. These include four "promises."

"I promise that I will strictly comply with the terms of the attached order 
and will otherwise keep the peace."

"I promise that I will not enter onto the Lands ... or any structure or 
building on the Lands, or encourage or counsel others to enter onto the 
Lands, without the express authorization of the Plaintiff."

"I promise that I will not obstruct or interfere with the operations of the 
Plaintiff, or its agents or employees, on the Lands or in any structure or 
building on the Lands."

"I promise that I will not obstruct or interfere with the access to, or 
egress from, the Lands or any building or structure on the Lands, by the 
Plaintiff or its agents or employees."

The one resident who declined these conditions was taken to the North Fraser 
Remand Centre and will appear in court again on Monday morning. In reply to 
demands for the return of clothing, medication, blankets, and other personal 
objects, the Vancouver Police offered to prepare an inventory to be ready 
next week. Many of these items, however, are required immediately.

Detailed accounts and documentation of police actions during their violent 
eviction are in preparation.

Supporters are invited to attend a community picnic tomorrow (Sunday 
September 22nd) between 1 & 3pm. Bring food, instruments, clothing, 
blankets, water and an appetite for social housing!

Friends of the Woodwards Squat

...

Photographs, video, audio, updates: http://vancouver.indymedia.org
A History of Vancouver Squatting: http://www.geocities.com/emithsilas
International Squatting News: http://www.squat.net



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