Showing posts with label ottawa rbc arrests 2010. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ottawa rbc arrests 2010. Show all posts

Monday, February 28, 2011

New Address for Roger Clement

A message from Ottawa Movement Defense, regarding Roger Clement, who is doing time after having plead guilty to firebombing a Royal Bank of Canada branch in Ottawa last April:

Roger Clement has been transferred from the Millhaven Assessment Unit to the Pittsburg Institution in Joyceville, Ontario. Pittsburg is a minimum security facility located just north of Kingston and housing about 250 inmates. For more info on Pittsburgh, visit http://www.csc-scc.gc.ca/text/facilit/institutprofiles/pittsburgh-eng.shtml

Roger appreciates receiving mail from the outside. While he can't always reply to every bit of correspondence, having access to letters and other reading material really help him cope with his time in prison.

His new address is:

Joseph Roger Clement (FPS-420268X)
Pittsburgh Institution
Highway 15, No. 3766
PO Box 4510
Kingston, Ontario
K7L 5E5

For more information about the J18 or Ottawa Movement Defense, get in touch with us at ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com.

In struggle,
Dan
OMD



Monday, January 03, 2011

subMedia Riot 2010! Triple Cheeseburger Worldwide Exclusive Interview



This week: 1. Olympic Resistance in Vancouver 2. RBC gets torched 3. They few, we many 4. Talkin' bout a revolution 5. Matthew Morgan-Brown speaks to subMedia (Interview with MMB about being arrested, updates regarding Roger's situation and regarding the police infiltrator, "Francois Leclerc")



Saturday, January 01, 2011

Another Update on Roger Clement and Ottawa Comrades

Roger was transferred to Millhaven mid-December and it is expected that he will be there for 2-3 months before being transferred to the federal penitentiary where he will stay for the rest of his 3.5 year sentence.

In the immediate future, letters can be sent to Roger to the following address:

Joseph Roger Clement (FPS-420268X)
Millhaven Institution
PO Box 280 Bath Rd.
Bath ON K0H 1G0

Roger thanks everyone for all their support.

Donations for outstanding legal expenses can be made to "Ottawa Movement Defense" c/o the Ottawa Women's Credit Union. Donations can also be made online using Paypal.

Ottawa Movement Defense
OPIRG-GRIPO Ottawa
631 King Edward Ave.
(3rd floor / 3ieme étage)
Ottawa, ON, K1N 7N8
Canada

In solidarity,
Ottawa Movement Defence



Thursday, December 30, 2010

Update on Roger Clement and Ottawa Comrades

Roger is still in prison. Claude is still going to court. People still need your love and support. OMD is still fund raising. Join the FB group, donate, write a letter to roger, get involved, support prisoners and political prisoners.

FB group: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Ottawa-Movement-Defense/119652828099161

We will be organizing a letter writing night for roger and other prisoners in early - mid january. And we are planning to have a fund raising party in the spring, hopefully around march. The J18 defendants still have significant legal costs, so if you can donate, it is much appreciated. Better yet, organize a fund-raiser in your community. Let us know what you are doing, and feel free to contact us if there is anything we can do to help, or if you would like someone from OMD to speak at your event.

What follows is a recent article by Sara Falconer from Ottawa XPress

Community Garden
Sara Falconer

Matthew Morgan-Brown is getting ready to visit Roger Clement in jail. It's only been a few short weeks since Morgan-Brown's own charges in the May 18 RBC firebombing were stayed due to lack of evidence, but already he is focused on making sure that his friend has the support he needs. Indeed, talking to him, it's clear that one of the things he found most difficult in the months following his arrest was not being able to help others. "Not being able to organize was really shitty. It's very important to me," he says. "The day they lifted my conditions I started organizing again." He has long been an active member of Indigenous Peoples Solidarity Movement Ottawa (IPSMO), and has now joined Ottawa Movement Defense, a group originally formed to support the three people arrested on June 18: himself, Joseph Roger Clement and Claude Haridge.

On Dec. 7, Clement was sentenced to a term of three years and six months, having pled guilty to the arson at the Glebe branch of the Royal Bank, as well as smashing windows and ATMs at a different branch in February. It's an unusually harsh sentence for property damage crimes, given that both the defence and Crown attorneys acknowledged he took great care to eliminate any possible injury to people.

In a statement, Ottawa Movement Defense said that they were inspired by Clement's strength of character: "Even when offered the chance to apologize for his role in the firebombing, Roger refused to do so, even though his liberty was on the line." The 58-year-old

former civil service employee is well known to local activists from years of social justice organizing. "I think he's a really principled person," says Morgan-Brown, who has known Clement for several years. Haridge, who was never charged with arson, has his last day in court this week. Most of the charges against him have been stayed, other than a charge for improper storage of ammunition, and unrelated charges from a protest several years ago.

The publication ban on the case has finally been lifted, but Morgan-Brown still finds it hard to speak freely. He's on a relatively short leash, as his charges have only been stayed, not dismissed - the Crown still has a year in which it can reinstate them.

Having spent time in jail before being released on bail, he knows first-hand how much community solidarity can mean. "When I was inside, I definitely felt like there was quite a bit of support," he says. "I enjoyed getting lots of letters."

Now working at his job again and devoting his spare time to activism, he says he is grappling with the psychological scars of the arrest and months of uncertainty. "The only concern I have is to avoid pushing myself too hard. It was definitely a traumatic experience."

As he looks forward to speaking to Clement for the first time since their arrests - albeit through a heavy plastic visiting window - he hopes that the community will continue to support them and other organizers fighting charges across the country. "My thoughts are with the people who were arrested on conspiracy or other G20 charges, with massive bail restrictions," he says. "People are looking at trials two years from now, because part of their punishment is those conditions, regardless of anything else around their cases."



Tuesday, December 07, 2010

Three and a Half Years for Roger Clement



From today's CBC:
A retired civil servant who firebombed a Royal Bank branch in Ottawa's Glebe neighbourhood in May has been sentenced to 3½ years in prison for arson.


Roger Clement, 58, pleaded guilty last month to arson causing damage and mischief in the May 18 firebombing of the Bank Street bank branch.

The court also sentenced Clement to an additional six months in prison on the mischief charge. However, the judge credited Clement with 5½ months for time already served.

Clement said during his sentencing hearing on Monday that the firebombing was a protest against the bank's connections to the Alberta oilsands and the Vancouver Olympics.

Clement poured gasoline in front of the bank's ATM machines while his accomplices ignited the fuel with a Molotov cocktail before running off.

No one was injured in the fire, which caused an estimated $1.6 million in damage.

Clement expressed regret during the first day of his sentencing hearing on Monday over the inconvenience he caused for the "high cost" of his incarceration. He also expressed regret that he will no longer be able to fulfil his obligations to friends and what's left of his family.

Clement's lawyer, Lawrence Greenspon, told the court on Monday that his client was left to care for a mentally ill brother after his mother died, and both his father and sister committed suicide.

He had argued his client should only serve three years because the attack on the branch at Bank Street and First Avenue was out of character and Clement isn't likely to reoffend.

The Crown had been seeking five to six years.



Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Roger Clement Pleads Guilty in RBC Firebombing, Refuses to Rat Out


Roger Clement, one of the individuals charged with the attack on the RBC branch in Ottawa in April, has plead guilty. He remains steadfast in his refusal to provide information incriminating anyone else. Charges have been stayed against Matthew Morgan-Brown, who was initially also charged in this case.

Read more from Ottawa Movement Defense:
Tuesday November 9th, Ottawa Movement Defense

Update from Court Proceedings

In solidarity with our friends who are not free!

Today, Roger, one of the three June 18 arrestees, pled guilty to charges related to the arson of the RBC branch in the Glebe in May. Charges against Matt have been stayed. Charges against Claude related to a February 1st incident of mischief have also been stayed. However, Claude is still fighting other charges for which he was arrested on June 18th. [Please Note: Claude was never charged in relation to the arson, but was arrested at the same time as Matt and Roger and faced unrelated charges.]

This is heavy news for all of us, and we would like to take this opportunity to thank all who are standing by the three arrestees. By no means is this over. Roger returns to court for sentencing in early December. Ottawa Movement Defense would like to reiterate its full support for all three of the J18 defendants. This is a difficult process for all three arrestees, as well as their families, friends and coworkers who have been missing them.

Support for Roger is very important in the coming weeks while he awaits sentencing on December 6th. You can write to him at:

Joseph Roger Clement
Ottawa Carleton Detention Centre
2244 Innes Road
Gloucester, ON
K1B 4C4

We are also still taking donations to help with the legal costs.

Ottawa Movement Defense now has a bank account with the Ottawa Women's Credit Union. Cheques can be made out to 'Ottawa Movement Defense' and mailed to the mailing address below.

furthermore we would like to express our solidarity to all political prisoners, and wish the best to the G20 arrestees across Ontario who are currently going through the court system and fighting for their freedom.

=========================================================

Ottawa Movement Defense is a legal and political support committee for the June 18th Defendants. We take direction from the June 18th defendants. Our support activities include: coordinating visits, fundraising towards legal and support costs, informing friends and supporters of the court proceedings, etc. We do not provide legal advice to the defendants.

Email: ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

Mailing Address:
Ottawa Movement Defense
207 Bank Street
Suite 453
Ottawa, ON
K2P 2N2

=========================================================

What follows is a mainstream news story from the Ottawa Sun:

OTTAWA — The man who pleaded guilty to arson in the May firebombing of a bank refuses to rat out his accomplice.

Joseph Roger Clement admitted to being the first of two men to enter the RBC branch in the Glebe neighbourhood late on May 18. According to video evidence, the first man doused the bank with a liquid believed to be gasoline and the second man threw a Molotov cocktail, starting the blaze.

But Clement's lawyer, Lawrence Greenspon, said Clement taking responsibility doesn't extend to naming his accomplice.

Clement also pleaded guilty to mischief over $5,000 for vandalizing another RBC branch at 745 Bank St. on Feb. 1.

Charges against co-accused Matthew Morgan-Brown, 32, were stayed due to insufficient evidence.

Claude Haridge, a co-accused in the Feb. 1 vandalism case, was never directly implicated in the May firebombing. Charges against him from the vandalism case were stayed Tuesday but ammunition storage charges laid during the firebombing investigation will be dealt with Dec. 14.

Clement will be held in custody until his sentencing hearing Dec. 6.

Clement, 58, was brought into court in a rumpled tan blazer and blue shirt with no tie. The retired civil servant smiled, nodded and winked at some of those in court, including former co-accused Morgan-Brown in the front row.

"It's been a long time coming for him," said Greenspon. "He took responsibility for his actions at the time and he's now formally taken responsibility in court and will be facing sentencing."

Crown prosecutor Mark Holmes said there simply wasn't enough evidence to prosecute Morgan-Brown but said charges could be reinstated within a year.

"If more evidence comes to light, the Crown will proceed," he said.

Video evidence from the bank fire will be played at Clement's sentencing hearing next month.

Morgan-Brown's lawyer, Ian Carter, said the only evidence against his client was that two years ago he had a similar jacket to one worn by one of the firebombers.

He said Morgan-Brown was known to have been part of political protests and investigators perceived him as being among "the usual suspects."

"They simply didn't have enough evidence to place my guy as one of the individuals," said Carter, adding he's been told the investigation is no longer active.

Carter said Morgan-Brown hopes to get his old job back, but wouldn't say what that was.

doug.hempstead@sunmedia.ca



Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Judge to Rule on Roger Clement's Bail TOMORROW

From Ottawa Movement Defense, which is working to support the individuals arrested and facing charges related to the bombing of an RBC bank earlier this year:

Ottawa Movement Defense
J18 UPDATE - Tuesday, August 24th

PACK THE COURTROOM ON WEDNESDAY, 12:30PM!
Judge to give decision on releasing Roger on bail

The Judge presiding over Roger Clement's bail review hearing will hand down her decision this Wednesday, August 25th at 12:30pm at the Ottawa Courthouse. The courtroom will be on the third floor but the specific room number is unknown at this point. You can find out by asking at the Info Desk when you arrive at the courthouse.

Ottawa Movement Defense really wants to stress how important it is that we pack the courtroom for this hearing. It's really vital that the court see that Roger is part of a community of people that love him and who want him to be treated with respect and due process. It may be Roger's last chance to make bail before trail, which could mean he spends months more in prison.

This hearing will be much quicker than previous appearances, as the respective lawyers have already made their arguments. All that's left to do is for the Judge to provide her decision on the matter. So even if you can only come out for you lunch hour, please come!

PACK THE COURTROOM! 12:30PM WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25TH!

SOLIDARITY FOR OUR FRIENDS WHO ARE NOT FREE!



Saturday, August 14, 2010

Ottawa Movement Defense: Roger's Bail Review Adjourned Until August 25

The following update from the Ottawa Movement Defense, supporting the individuals facing charges related to the firebombing of a Royal Bank branch in April:

UPDATE - Friday, August 13th

ROGER'S BAIL REVIEW ADJOURNED UNTIL AUGUST 25TH

Unfortunately, Roger's bail review ran out of time again today. Due to scheduling conflicts with the various parties involved, the next court appearance to resolve Roger's bail situation will be at 12:30pm on Wednesday, August 25th. Final summations have been complete so on August 25th the Judge will be handing down her decision.

Roger wanted us to thank everyone who attended yesterday and today. He appreciated that people took time from work to be there. He's optimistic he'll be released, and feels really supported by everybody. Thank you!

Thank you to everyone that came out for even a few minutes yesterday and today. We really want to stress how important it is that we pack the courtroom on August 25th. It's really vital that the court see that Roger is part of a community of people that love him and who want him to be treated with respect and due process. It may be Roger's last chance to make bail before trail, which could mean he spends months in prison.

PACK THE COURTROOM! 12:30PM WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25TH!

SOLIDARITY FOR OUR FRIENDS WHO ARE NOT FREE!



Friday, August 06, 2010

Matt Morgan-Brown Granted Bail

The following from Ottawa Movement Defense, which works to support the individuals facing charges related to the bombing of a Royal Bank branch in Ottawa earlier this year:

Great news!

Ottawa Movement Defense is happy to report that Matt MB was granted bail today!

Matt has to serve roughly two more weeks (for an arrest unrelated to his June 18th arrest), after which he can finally re-join his family, friends and co-workers who have been missing him dearly. This is very exciting news for all of us. Matt has been in custody for over six weeks now, which is six weeks too many.

We thank everyone who came out to court today to support him. We packed the room in a very clear display of support and solidarity.

This just the beginning of what will surely be a very long process, but at this point, we feel it is very important to celebrate this victory. Matt is a part of a broad community of people who have been waiting for this moment since his arrest. We are also happy to report that the conditions under which he was released will make it possible for almost all his friends and supporters to see him.

Of course, support will still be needed. Roger has a bail review coming up soon, and the three arrestees will need support throughout their trial. So, take this good news for now, and brace for the long road ahead.

In solidarity,
Ottawa Movement Defense



Wednesday, August 04, 2010

Ottawa Movement Defense: Matt Morgan-Brown Bail Hearing Friday August 6th


Another update from Ottawa Movement Defense, providing information about the Ottawa comrades who were arrested in relation to the bombing of a Royal Bank earlier this year:


Matt Morgan-Brown Bail Hearing: FRIDAY AUGUST 6th . COURTROOM 9 - 9:30am
Ottawa Courthouse, 161 Elgin in downtown Ottawa (near the human rights monument and city hall)


//////////////////////////
Ottawa Movement Defense
J18 UPDATE
Tuesday, July 27th, 2010
//////////////////////////

===========
CONTENTS
===========

1. Statement to Supporters from Matt and Roger
2. Legal Update
3. Court Support Days
4. Sending Letters of Support to the J18 Defendants
5. No Public/Media Statements
6. Donate to the Legal Fund
7. Hold a Fundraiser
8. Stay Up-To-Date



=================================================
1. STATEMENT TO SUPPORTERS FROM MATT AND ROGER
=================================================

We would like to thank everyone for their support. It's much appreciated, much needed, and makes in being in prison more bearable. Although adjusting to life in prison is not easy, everything is more or less alright for now.

Of course, we are both hoping to get out on bail. Getting bail is currently what we are focused on, and this should be the priority for folks supporting us on the outside.

Please remember that right now we don't want supporters talking to the media or making public comments about us or our case.

If you'd like to know details on how to best support us at this time, contact Ottawa Movement Defense at ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

In solidarity,
Matt Morgan-Brown, Roger Clement
July 15, 2010


=================
2. LEGAL UPDATE
=================

Earlier this month, Claude was released on bail with very restrictive conditions, including a curfew, and a requirement that he reside at a relative's home.

Roger was denied bail previously, and has been preparing for a bail review hearing scheduled for Friday, July 30th. Unfortunately, we were informed today by the Court Reporters office that the transcripts of Roger's original bail hearing will not be ready for July 30th. As this transcript is an essential part of the bail review hearing, his court appearance has been postponed, with a date yet to be determined. Roger and his lawyers are working to secure the early possible date for this hearing, and we will let you know as soon as we can.

Matt Morgan-Brown remains in detention, as well, with his bail hearing set to occur friday the 6th courtroom 9, 9:30 am. While this is a lengthy period of time to wait for a bail hearing, this was a strategic decision by Matt and his lawyer based on other criteria not directly related to this case.


=======================
3. COURT SUPPORT DAYS
=======================

On each of the following days OMD is calling for courtroom support for the J18 defendants. Court support is vital in that it helps ensures the Crown and legal system treat our friends fairly and with due process. It also sends a clear message to the defendants that their friends, family, and co-workers care, miss them, are concerned for their welfare, and want them liberated immediately.

a) Roger Clement Bail Review Hearing: Location/Date TBA
b) Matt Morgan-Brown Bail Hearing: FRIDAY AUGUST 6th . COURTROOM 9 - 9:30am

Ottawa Courthouse, 161 Elgin in downtown Ottawa (near the human rights monument and city hall)



====================================================
4. SENDING LETTERS OF SUPPORT TO THE J18 DEFENDANTS
====================================================

Matt and Roger are still being detained at Ottawa-Carleton Detention Centre, where they are only allowed two short visits per week. This cuts them off from their wide support networks during this difficult time as they are facing serious charges.
We encourage you to write letters of support to them. Please tell them that you are with them and support their immediate release.

Their mailing addresses are:

Joseph Roger Clement
Ottawa Carleton Detention Centre
2244 Innes Road
Gloucester, ON
K1B 4C4


(matt is still at this same address)
Matthew Morgan-Brown
Ottawa Carleton Detention Centre
2244 Innes Road
Gloucester, ON
K1B 4C4

Your letters of support will be very much appreciated.


==============================
5. NO PUBLIC / MEDIA STATEMENTS
==============================

PLEASE NOTE: The June 18th Defendants have asked supporters NOT to make public or media statements at this time.

Please be careful when discussing this situation publicly, including online and to the media, as incautious statements may compromise the ability of the accused to defend themselves in court.

Now that this matter is before the courts, we need to ensure the Crown is able to base its case only on substantive evidence, rather than relying on sensational or incautious public comments.

In particular, IT IS THE POSITION OF OTTAWA MOVEMENT DEFENSE THAT SPEAKING VOLUNTARILY TO THE POLICE WILL PREJUDICE THE DEFENSE OF THE ACCUSED AND MAKE THEIR COURT PROCEEDINGS MORE DIFFICULT.

ANY STATEMENT MADE TO THE POLICE OR MEDIA CAN BE USED AGAINST THE ACCUSED, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER IT IS HYPOTHETICAL OR BASED ON DISTORTED INFORMATION.

No matter how friendly or intimidating police may appear, or how clever you think you might be in getting information out of them, nothing good can come of voluntarily talking to the police.

If police contact you, please let us know as soon as possible at ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com


====================================
6. DONATE TO THE LEGAL DEFENSE FUND
====================================


Financial support is crucial right now. We must begin fundraising ongoing legal and support costs, which are already quite significant. In addition to legal fees, there are related support costs accrued by Ottawa Movement Defense. These include such things as collect calls from prison, jail canteen, etc.
To donate to the legal defense fund via PayPal, please follow the below instructions:
  1. Go to http://www.paypal.com/sendmoney
  2. Type in ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com in the "To" box.
  3. Type in your email address in the "From" box
  4. Type in Amount and find CAD (Can Dollars) in the menu to the right.
  5. Click on the "Personal" Tab and check the button "Gift".
  6. Click "Continue".
  7. The next page will ask you to either Log In to your paypal account or sign up for an account. If you sign up for an account, you can link up your account to your credit card or bank account.
  8.  For all transactions, there is a charge of 2.2% of the amount + $0.30. You can decide whether you will pay this amount or the Ottawa Movement Defense (in which case this amount is deducted from the amount you are giving).
For other methods, please contact us at ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com


==========================
7. ORGANISE A FUNDRAISER
==========================

Please consider organising a fundraiser in your city or within your social networks. We really appreciate the fundraisers people have already organised. There are currently more underway!

If you would like to volunteer and help organise with the fundraising subcommittee, please email us at ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

Please let us know if you are organising a fundraiser so we can help get the word out.


=====================
8. STAY UP-TO-DATE
=====================

If you would like to be added (or removed) from the Ottawa Movement Defense announcements list, please write to us:
ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

The purpose of the announcements list to provide information to the friends and supporters of the June 18th Defendants.


/////////////////////////////


Ottawa Movement Defense is a legal and political support committee for the June 18th Defendants. We take direction from the June 18th defendants. Our support activities include: coordinating visits, fundraising towards legal and support costs, informing friends and supporters of the court proceedings, etc. We do not provide legal advice to the defendants. Currently, we are not making any statements to the media.

Email: ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

Phone: 613 304 8770

Mailing Address:
Ottawa Movement Defense
207 Bank Street
Suite 453
Ottawa, ON
K2P 2N2



Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Roger Clement's Bail Hearing Postponed

This just in from Ottawa Movement Defence:

Roger was denied bail previously, and has been preparing for a bail review hearing scheduled for Friday, July 30th. Unfortunately, we were informed today by the Court Reporters office that the transcripts of Roger's original bail hearing will not be ready for July 30th. As this transcript is an essential part of the bail review hearing, his court appearance has been postponed, with a date yet to be determined. Roger and his lawyers are working to secure the early possible date for this hearing, and we will let you know as soon as we can.

To read their entire update/synopsis of the situation of the Ottawa comrades who are facing charges in relation to the April bombing of an RBC branch in that city:




PLEASE NOTE: ROGER'S BAIL REVIEW, PREVIOUSLY SCHEDULED FOR FRIDAY, JULY 30TH, HAS BEEN POSTPONED. PLEASE SEE THE LEGAL UPDATE SECTION BELOW FOR DETAILS

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
Ottawa Movement Defense
J18 UPDATE
Tuesday, July 27th, 2010
//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

===========
CONTENTS
===========

1. Statement to Supporters from Matt and Roger
2. Legal Update
3. Court Support Days
4. Sending Letters of Support to the J18 Defendants
5. No Public/Media Statements
6. Donate to the Legal Fund
7. Hold a Fundraiser
8. Stay Up-To-Date

=================================================
1. STATEMENT TO SUPPORTERS FROM MATT AND ROGER
=================================================

We would like to thank everyone for their support. It's much appreciated, much needed, and makes in being in prison more bearable. Although adjusting to life in prison is not easy, everything is more or less alright for now.

Of course, we are both hoping to get out on bail. Getting bail is currently what we are focused on, and this should be the priority for folks supporting us on the outside.

Please remember that right now we don't want supporters talking to the media or making public comments about us or our case.

If you'd like to know details on how to best support us at this time, contact Ottawa Movement Defense atottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

In solidarity,
Matt Morgan-Brown, Roger Clement
July 15, 2010

=================
2. LEGAL UPDATE
=================

Earlier this month, Claude was released on bail with very restrictive conditions, including a curfew, and a requirement that he reside at a relative's home.

Roger was denied bail previously, and has been preparing for a bail review hearing scheduled for Friday, July 30th. Unfortunately, we were informed today by the Court Reporters office that the transcripts of Roger's original bail hearing will not be ready for July 30th. As this transcript is an essential part of the bail review hearing, his court appearance has been postponed, with a date yet to be determined. Roger and his lawyers are working to secure the early possible date for this hearing, and we will let you know as soon as we can.

Matt Morgan-Brown remains in detention, as well, with his bail hearing set to occur in early August, though no specific date is yet confirmed. While this is a lengthy period of time to wait for a bail hearing, this was a strategic decision by Matt and his lawyer based on other criteria not directly related to this case. We will notify everyone as soon as Matt's bail hearing date is known for certain.

=======================
3. COURT SUPPORT DAYS
=======================

On each of the following days OMD is calling for courtroom support for the J18 defendants. Court support is vital in that it helps ensures the Crown and legal system treat our friends fairly and with due process. It also sends a clear message to the defendants that their friends, family, and co-workers care, miss them, are concerned for their welfare, and want them liberated immediately.

a) Roger Clement Bail Review Hearing: Location/Date TBA
b) Matt Morgan-Brown Bail Hearing: Early August, all day, Courtroom TBA

====================================================
4. SENDING LETTERS OF SUPPORT TO THE J18 DEFENDANTS
====================================================

Matt and Roger are still being detained at Ottawa-Carleton Detention Centre, where they are only allowed two short visits per week. This cuts them off from their wide support networks during this difficult time as they are facing serious charges.

We encourage you to write letters of support to them. Please tell them that you are with them and support their immediate release.

Their mailing addresses are:

Joseph Roger Clement
Ottawa Carleton Detention Centre
2244 Innes Road
Gloucester, ON
K1B 4C4

Matthew Morgan-Brown
Ottawa Carleton Detention Centre
2244 Innes Road
Gloucester, ON
K1B 4C4

Your letters of support will be very much appreciated.

==============================
5. NO PUBLIC / MEDIA STATEMENTS
==============================

PLEASE NOTE: The June 18th Defendants have asked supporters NOT to make public or media statements at this time.

Please be careful when discussing this situation publicly, including online and to the media, as incautious statements may compromise the ability of the accused to defend themselves in court.

Now that this matter is before the courts, we need to ensure the Crown is able to base its case only on substantive evidence, rather than relying on sensational or incautious public comments.

In particular, IT IS THE POSITION OF OTTAWA MOVEMENT DEFENSE THAT SPEAKING VOLUNTARILY TO THE POLICE WILL PREJUDICE THE DEFENSE OF THE ACCUSED AND MAKE THEIR COURT PROCEEDINGS MORE DIFFICULT.

ANY STATEMENT MADE TO THE POLICE OR MEDIA CAN BE USED AGAINST THE ACCUSED, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER IT IS HYPOTHETICAL OR BASED ON DISTORTED INFORMATION.

No matter how friendly or intimidating police may appear, or how clever you think you might be in getting information out of them, nothing good can come of voluntarily talking to the police.

If police contact you, please let us know as soon as possible at ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

====================================
6. DONATE TO THE LEGAL DEFENSE FUND
====================================

Financial support is crucial right now. We must begin fundraising ongoing legal and support costs, which are already quite significant. In addition to legal fees, there are related support costs accrued by Ottawa Movement Defense. These include such things as collect calls from prison, jail canteen, etc.

To donate to the legal defense fund via PayPal, please follow the below instructions:

1.Go to http://www.paypal.com/sendmoney

2. Type in ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com in the "To" box.

3. Type in your email address in the "From" box

4. Type in Amount and find CAD (Can Dollars) in the menu to the right.

5. Click on the "Personal" Tab and check the button "Gift".

6. Click "Continue".

7. The next page will ask you to either Log In to your paypal account
or sign up for an account. If you sign up for an account, you can link
up your account to your credit card or bank account.

8. For all transactions, there is a charge of 2.2% of the amount +
$0.30. You can decide whether you will pay this amount or the Ottawa
Movement Defense (in which case this amount is deducted from the
amount you are giving).
For other methods, please contact us at ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

==========================
7. ORGANISE A FUNDRAISER
==========================

Please consider organising a fundraiser in your city or within your social networks. We really appreciate the fundraisers people have already organised. There are currently more underway!

If you would like to volunteer and help organise with the fundraising subcommittee, please email us atottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

Please let us know if you are organising a fundraiser so we can help get the word out.

=====================
8. STAY UP-TO-DATE
=====================

If you would like to be added (or removed) from the Ottawa Movement Defense announcements list, please write to us:
ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

The purpose of the announcements list to provide information to the friends and supporters of the June 18th Defendants.


////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Ottawa Movement Defense is a legal and political support committee for the June 18th Defendants. We take direction from the June 18th defendants. Our support activities include: coordinating visits, fundraising towards legal and support costs, informing friends and supporters of the court proceedings, etc. We do not provide legal advice to the defendants. Currently, we are not making any statements to the media.

Email: ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

Phone: 613 304 8770

Mailing Address:
Ottawa Movement Defense
207 Bank Street
Suite 453
Ottawa, ON
K2P 2N2

////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////



Friday, July 16, 2010

July 16th Update from Ottawa Movement Defense

Another update from Ottawa Movement Defense, providing information about the Ottawa comrades who were arrested in relation to the bombing of a Royal Bank earlier this year:



//////////////////////////////
Ottawa Movement Defense
UPDATE & STATEMENT FROM J18 DETAINEES
Friday, July 16th, 2010
//////////////////////////////

Sunday, June 18th marks one month since our friends were arrested and jailed for their alleged connection to the May 18th arson of a Royal Bank of Canada branch in Ottawa, Ontario. The bank remains boarded up, 2 of our friends remain in jail, and a 3rd friend has been released under very strict bail conditions, despite not currently being charged with anything in connection to the alleged RBC arson. Our thoughts are with them this weekend, as they have been constantly since their arrest, and we hope that not many more days will pass before we can see them liberated.

Solidarity With Our Friends Who Are Not Free!

===========
CONTENTS
===========

1. Statement to Supporters from Matt and Roger
2. Legal Update
3. Court Support Days
4. Sending Letters of Support to the J18 Defendants
5. No Public/Media Statements
6. Donate to the Legal Fund
7. Hold a Fundraiser
8. Stay Up-To-Date

=================================================
1. STATEMENT TO SUPPORTERS FROM MATT AND ROGER
=================================================

We would like to thank everyone for their support. It's much appreciated, much needed, and makes in being in prison more bearable. Although adjusting to life in prison is not easy, everything is more or less alright for now.

Of course, we are both hoping to get out on bail. Getting bail is currently what we are focused on, and this should be the priority for folks supporting us on the outside.

Please remember that right now we don't want supporters talking to the media or making public comments about us or our case.

If you'd like to know details on how to best support us at this time, contact Ottawa Movement Defense at ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

In solidarity,
Matt Morgan-Brown, Roger Clement
July 15, 2010

=================
2. LEGAL UPDATE
=================

Earlier this month, Claude was released on bail with very restrictive conditions, including a curfew, and a requirement that he reside at a relative's home. His next court appearance is on Monday, July 19th.

Roger was denied bail previously, and he and his lawyers are now working to prepare for a bail review hearing, which will take place on Friday, July 30th. The specific courtroom has not been determined yet, but we'll send that information out as soon as it is confirmed. WE ARE CALLING ON SUPPORTERS TO FILL THE COURTROOM ON JULY 30TH.

Matt Morgan-Brown remains in detention, as well, with his bail hearing set to occur in early August, though no specific date is yet confirmed. While this is a lengthy period of time to wait for a bail hearing, this was a strategic decision by Matt and his lawyer based on other criteria not directly related to this case. We will notify everyone as soon as Matt's bail hearing date is known for certain.

=======================
3. COURT SUPPORT DAYS
=======================

On each of the following days OMD is calling for courtroom support for the J18 defendants. Court support is vital in that it helps ensures the Crown and legal system treat our friends fairly and with due process. It also sends a clear message to the defendants that their friends, family, and co-workers care, miss them, are concerned for their welfare, and want them liberated immediately.

a) Roger Clement Bail Review Hearing: Friday, July 30th, all day, Courtroom TBA
b) Matt Morgan-Brown Bail Hearing: Early August, all day, Courtroom TBA

====================================================
4. SENDING LETTERS OF SUPPORT TO THE J18 DEFENDANTS
====================================================

Matt and Roger are still being detained at Ottawa-Carleton Detention Centre, where they are only allowed two short visits per week. This cuts them off from their wide support networks during this difficult time as they are facing serious charges.

We encourage you to write letters of support to them. Please tell them that you are with them and support their immediate release.

Their mailing addresses are:

Joseph Roger Clement
Ottawa Carleton Detention Centre
2244 Innes Road
Gloucester, ON
K1B 4C4

Matthew Morgan-Brown
Ottawa Carleton Detention Centre
2244 Innes Road
Gloucester, ON
K1B 4C4

Your letters of support will be very much appreciated.

==============================
5. NO PUBLIC / MEDIA STATEMENTS
==============================

PLEASE NOTE: The June 18th Defendants have asked supporters NOT to make public or media statements at this time.

Please be careful when discussing this situation publicly, including online and to the media, as incautious statements may compromise the ability of the accused to defend themselves in court.

Now that this matter is before the courts, we need to ensure the Crown is able to base its case only on substantive evidence, rather than relying on sensational or incautious public comments.

In particular, IT IS THE POSITION OF OTTAWA MOVEMENT DEFENSE THAT SPEAKING VOLUNTARILY TO THE POLICE WILL PREJUDICE THE DEFENSE OF THE ACCUSED AND MAKE THEIR COURT PROCEEDINGS MORE DIFFICULT.

ANY STATEMENT MADE TO THE POLICE OR MEDIA CAN BE USED AGAINST THE ACCUSED, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER IT IS HYPOTHETICAL OR BASED ON DISTORTED INFORMATION.

No matter how friendly or intimidating police may appear, or how clever you think you might be in getting information out of them, nothing good can come of voluntarily talking to the police.

If police contact you, please let us know as soon as possible at ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

====================================
6. DONATE TO THE LEGAL DEFENSE FUND
====================================

Financial support is crucial right now. We must begin fundraising ongoing legal and support costs, which are already quite significant. In addition to legal fees, there are related support costs accrued by Ottawa Movement Defense. These include such things as collect calls from prison, jail canteen, etc.

To donate to the legal defense fund via PayPal, please follow the below instructions:

1.Go to http://www.paypal.com/sendmoney

2. Type in ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com in the "To" box.

3. Type in your email address in the "From" box

4. Type in Amount and find CAD (Can Dollars) in the menu to the right.

5. Click on the "Personal" Tab and check the button "Gift".

6. Click "Continue".

7. The next page will ask you to either Log In to your paypal account
or sign up for an account. If you sign up for an account, you can link
up your account to your credit card or bank account.

8. For all transactions, there is a charge of 2.2% of the amount +
$0.30. You can decide whether you will pay this amount or the Ottawa
Movement Defense (in which case this amount is deducted from the
amount you are giving).

For other methods, please contact us at ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

==========================
7. ORGANISE A FUNDRAISER
==========================

Please consider organising a fundraiser in your city or within your social networks. We really appreciate the fundraisers people have already organised. There are currently more underway!

If you would like to volunteer and help organise with the fundraising subcommittee, please email us at ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

Please let us know if you are organising a fundraiser so we can help get the word out.

=====================
8. STAY UP-TO-DATE
=====================

If you would like to be added (or removed) from the Ottawa Movement Defense announcements list, please write to us:
ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

The purpose of the announcements list to provide information to the friends and supporters of the June 18th Defendants.


//////////////////////////////

Ottawa Movement Defense is a legal and political support committee for the June 18th Defendants. We take direction from the June 18th defendants. Our support activities include: coordinating visits, fundraising towards legal and support costs, informing friends and supporters of the court proceedings, etc. We do not provide legal advice to the defendants. Currently, we are not making any statements to the media.

Email: ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

Phone: 613 304 8770

Mailing Address:
Ottawa Movement Defense
207 Bank Street
Suite 453
Ottawa, ON
K2P 2N2

//////////////////////////////



Thursday, July 15, 2010

Update on Ottawa June 18th Defendants






The following is an update from Ottawa Movement Defense about the conditions and how to support the three individuals who were arrested on June 17th, on charges related to the bombing of a Royal Bank in Ottawa in April of this year. Please forward widely.


//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
Ottawa Movement Defense
UPDATE & HOW TO SUPPORT THE JUNE 18TH DEFENDANTS
Thursday, July 15th, 2010
//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

UPDATE


Earlier this month, Claude was released on bail with very restrictive conditions, including a curfew, and a requirement that he reside at a relative's home.


Roger was denied bail previously, and he and his lawyers are now working to prepare for a bail review hearing. This hearing will take place later this month, though no date has been confirmed yet as there is still considerable work to be done by his lawyers to ensure that his bail review has a good chance of resulting in his release.


Matt Morgan-Brown remains in detention, as well, and has not had a bail hearing yet. While we aren't able to divulge the details, this was a strategic decision by Matt and his lawyer. Once details are made public in the near future, we'll update everyone.

Both Matt and Roger will appear briefly via video on Friday, July 16th, in Courtroom #5, sometime between 1:30 and 4:00. We will update folks and call for court support if that happens. While anyone is welcome to attend, we are not calling for active court support for this date, as it will be very brief and the defendants will not be present in the courtroom.


HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT THE JUNE 18TH DEFENDANTS


This weekend marks ONE MONTH since the arrests of Roger Matt and Claude, who are still not free.

There are a number of ways to support them at this time:

======================
1. LETTERS OF SUPPORT
======================
 Matt and Roger are still being detained at Ottawa-Carleton Detention Centre, where they are  only allowed two short visits per week. This cuts them off from their wide support networks  during this difficult time as they are facing serious charges.

We encourage you to write letters of support to them. Please tell them that you are with them and support their immediate release.

Their mailing addresses are:

Joseph Roger Clement
Ottawa Carleton Detention Centre
2244 Innes Road
Gloucester, ON
K1B 4C4

Matthew Morgan-Brown
Ottawa Carleton Detention Centre
2244 Innes Road
Gloucester, ON
K1B 4C4

Your letters of support will be very much appreciated.

==============================
2. NO PUBLIC / MEDIA STATEMENTS
==============================

PLEASE NOTE: The June 18th Defendants have asked supporters NOT to make public or media statements at this time.

Please be careful when discussing this situation publicly, including online and to the media, as  incautious statements may compromise the ability of the accused to defend themselves in court. Now that this matter is before the courts, we need to ensure the Crown is able to base its case  only on substantive evidence, rather than relying on sensational or incautious public comments.

In particular, IT IS THE POSITION OF OTTAWA MOVEMENT DEFENSE THAT SPEAKING VOLUNTARILY TO THE POLICE WILL PREJUDICE THE DEFENSE OF THE ACCUSED  AND MAKE THEIR COURT PROCEEDINGS MORE DIFFICULT. ANY STATEMENT MADE TO THE POLICE OR MEDIA CAN BE USED AGAINST THE  ACCUSED, REGARDLESS OF WHETHER IT IS HYPOTHETICAL OR BASED ON  DISTORTED INFORMATION.

No matter how friendly or intimidating police may appear, or how clever you think you might be in  getting information out of them, nothing good can come of voluntarily talking to the police. If police contact you, please let us know as soon as possible at  ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

===================================
3. DONATE TO THE LEGAL DEFENSE FUND
===================================

Financial support is crucial right now. We must begin fundraising ongoing legal and support  costs, which are already quite significant. In addition to legal fees, there are related support  costs accrued by Ottawa Movement Defense. These include such things as collect calls from prison, jail canteen, etc.

To donate to the legal defense fund via PayPal, please follow the below instructions:

1.Go to http://www.paypal.com/sendmoney
2. Type in ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com in the "To" box.
3. Type in your email address in the "From" box
4. Type in Amount and find CAD (Can Dollars) in the menu to the right.
5. Click on the "Personal" Tab and check the button "Gift".
6. Click "Continue".
7. The next page will ask you to either Log In to your paypal account or sign up for an account. If you sign up for an account, you can link up your account to your credit card or bank account.
8. For all transactions, there is a charge of 2.2% of the amount + $0.30. You can decide whether you will pay this amount or the Ottawa Movement Defense (in which case this amount is deducted from the amount you are giving).

For other methods, please contact us at ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com


==========================
5. ORGANISE A FUNDRAISER
==========================

Please consider organising a fundraiser in your city or within your social networks. We really appreciate the fundraisers people have already organised. There are currently more underway!

If you would like to volunteer and help organise with the fundraising subcommittee, please email us at ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

Please let us know if you are organising a fundraiser so we can help get the word out.



=====================
6. STAY UP-TO-DATE
=====================

If you would like to be added (or removed) from the Ottawa Movement Defense announcements list, please write to us:ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

The purpose of the announcements list to provide information to the friends and supporters of the June 18th Defendants.



////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Ottawa Movement Defense is a legal and political support committee for the June 18th Defendants. We take direction from the June 18th defendants. Our support activities include: coordinating visits, fundraising towards legal and support costs, informing friends and supporters of the court proceedings, etc. We do not provide legal advice to the defendants. Currently, we are not making any statements to the media.

Email: ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com

Phone: 613 304 8770

Mailing Address:
Ottawa Movement Defense
207 Bank Street
Suite 453
Ottawa, ON
K2P 2N2

////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////



Friday, June 18, 2010

Arrests in Ottawa RBC Firebombing: Courtroom Solidarity Needed!

URGENT COURT SUPPORT NEEDED SATURDAY 9:00AM IN OTTAWA

Saturday, June 19th
9:00 a.m.
Courtroom #6, Ottawa Courthouse
Elgin @ Laurier
Ottawa

Three people arrested in relation to Ottawa RBC Firebombing

On the morning of Friday, June 18th, 2010, three people were arrested in connection with the May 18th firebombing of an RBC branch in Ottawa. At least two of the people arrested were picked up by plainclothes officers. The police have been searching their homes. Plainclothes and uniformed officers were seen going inside their homes, and police cars were seen parked outside. It is not known what they are being charged with, although media outlets have indicated they will all be charged with arson related offenses.

Until we are able to confirm further details, we won’t be releasing the names of the 3 arrestees. But the arrested individuals are all well known, dedicated public organizers committed to working for justice on a variety of issues.

Please come out tomorrow morning to show your support for these three arrested individuals. We are concerned that the Crown may ask for highly restrictive bail conditions or attempt to prevent their release entirely.

More updates will follow, as details emerge. Right now, the most tangible way you can support these individuals is to join us at:

9:00am
Saturday, June 19th,
Elgin Courthouse (Elgin & Laurier)
Courtroom #6

For media inquiries, contact: 613-304-8770 or ottawamovementdefense@gmail.com