Kelowna man cleared of criminal charge for racist outburst at vaccine clinic
A Kelowna man, Bruce Orydzuk, has been found not guilty of a criminal charge related to a racist tirade he made outside a vaccine clinic in the city.
The incident occurred in April 2021, when Orydzuk was caught on video shouting racial slurs and making derogatory comments towards a group of people waiting in line at a COVID-19 vaccination clinic. The video quickly went viral, sparking outrage and condemnation from the community.
Orydzuk was subsequently charged with one count of causing a disturbance, a criminal offense under the Canadian Criminal Code. However, after a trial in Kelowna Provincial Court, Judge Ellen Burdett ruled that there was not enough evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Orydzuk’s actions constituted a disturbance.
In her decision, Judge Burdett stated that while Orydzuk’s behavior was “offensive and unacceptable,” it did not meet the legal threshold for a criminal charge. She also noted that Orydzuk had no prior criminal record and had expressed remorse for his actions.
The incident sparked a larger conversation about racism and discrimination in the community, with many calling for stricter consequences for hate speech and actions. In response, the City of Kelowna implemented a new bylaw that allows for fines to be issued for discriminatory behavior in public places.
Orydzuk’s lawyer, Paul Hergott, stated that his client was relieved by the verdict and hoped that the incident would serve as a lesson for him and others to think before speaking. He also expressed gratitude for the judge’s decision, stating that it was a fair and just outcome.
The Crown prosecutor, however, expressed disappointment with the verdict and stated that they would be reviewing the decision to determine if an appeal would be pursued.
The incident at the vaccine clinic was a disturbing reminder of the ongoing issue of racism and discrimination in our society. While Orydzuk may have been found not guilty of a criminal charge, it is important for individuals to understand the impact of their words and actions and to strive for a more inclusive and respectful community.
