2 Alberta men threatened to kill Trudeau in online posts: RCMP

Police say a man from Calgary and another from Edmonton are facing charges after allegedly posting online threats against Canadian politicians, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Canada’s national security police, the RCMP’s federal policing Integrated National Security Enforcement Team (INSET), arrested and charged both men last month in separate investigations.

Mounties say INSET’s northwest region received information on May 10 about an X user threatening to kill Trudeau.

On June 6, 23-year-old Mason John Baker of Calgary was charged with uttering threats. He is scheduled to appear in court in Calgary on Tuesday.

Alberta RCMP say INSET became aware on June 7 of a YouTube user who allegedly threatened to kill Trudeau, Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland and federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh.

On June 13, 67-year-old Garry Belzevick was charged with three counts of uttering threats. He is scheduled to appear in court in Edmonton on Thursday.

“In the digital age, where so many interactions occur online and are perceived to be anonymous, there is a belief that virtual actions and words do not have consequences,” Insp. Matthew Johnson, the acting officer in charge of the RCMP’s federal policing INSET (northwest region), said in a news release.

“When these virtual actions or words cross the boundaries of Charter-protected speech and constitute criminal activity, police will investigate thoroughly to hold those responsible accountable.”