Top cop calls rioters 'terrorists,' promises review

The G20 summit may be over but the controversy about police operations is lingering. Civil liberties groups are demanding a public inquiry. They say that officers used excessive force in dealing with protesters, but the Toronto police chief is fighting back.

CTV Toronto: Paul Bliss on the activists

The fallout continues as activists continue their protests against the Toronto Police over the service's handling of the G20 Summit. Paul Bliss reports.

CTV Toronto: Austin Delaney at the centre

The media were allowed a look at the Eastern Avenue detention centre, nicknamed Torontonamo Bay by G20 protesters. Austin Delaney reports.

CTV News Channel: Scott Laurie on Eastern Ave.

A CTV correspondent tours the detention centre where the G20 protesters were held and describes its 'uncomfortable' conditions, while also saying people are angry at how and why they were detained.

CTV Toronto: Police display seized G20 weapons

Weapons seized during the G20 protests were displayed at a news conference where chief Blair defended police actions. Austin Delaney reports.

CTV Toronto: No arrests at post-G20 protest

No arrests have been reported after the large scale post-G20 protest downtown Tuesday night. Michelle Dube reports.

CTV News Channel: Bill Blair defends tactics

The Toronto chief-of-police defends police tactics used during the G20 protests and displays weapons seized over the weekend.

CTV News Channel: Bill Blair, part 2

In the conclusion of a press conference, the Toronto chief-of-police says a full review of police procedures and their conduct will take place and says the people who used black bloc tactics are the ones responsible for the chaos caused over the weekend.

Canada AM: Scott Harris, Council of Canadians

A member of the Council of Canadians, who attended the rally outside of police headquarters yesterday, says the crowd was expressing their anger towards the police's action on Sunday, as they corralled people for hours in the rain at Queen and Spadina, while also saying police overreacted.

MyNews: Toronto police cruiser burns

From contributor Asad Munir: Chaos ensues as a police car burns after being set on fire by anti G20 protesters in downtown Toronto on Saturday, June 26, 2010.

CTV News Channel: Journalists on the arrests

Sunday: A group of CTV journalists speak about their interactions with police who were making arrests at the intersection at Spadina and Queen Street West, and explain how police are treating members of the media at protests.

CTV News Extended: Protesters clash with police

Sunday: Raw CTV News video of protesters clashing with riot police as officers move in and snatch various 'known anarchists' who were in the crowds outside the detention centre at approximately 12 p.m. ET on Sunday, June 27.

CTV News Channel: Genevieve Beauchemin

A CTV correspondent says people from Quebec who headed to Toronto for protesting felt they were targeted by the Toronto Police and that another protest will be held in Montreal on Canada day, to address the 'heavy handed police tactics'.

Watch: See all Videos in the Player

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Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair takes questions from the media during a press conference on Tuesday, June 29, 2010.

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Selected Comment

Why is every criminal nowadays called a 'terrorist'? The rioters were clearly in the wrong, but they are hardly terrorists. Gimme a break.

ouifyg

Top cop calls rioters 'terrorists,' promises review

talking about
Top cop calls rioters 'terrorists,' promises review

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CTV.ca News Staff

Date: Tue. Jun. 29 2010 9:34 PM ET

Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair said Tuesday that anarchists using black bloc tactics are "terrorists" and some G20 demonstrators were complicit in allowing them to run amok on the city's streets.

"They came to attack our city, they came to attack our summit, they came to commit crimes and victimize people in this city," he said of the black-clad, masked vandals during a news conference.

Blair also showed media a number of weapons seized during the G20 protests, including baseball bats, a BB gun and arrows that Blair said were equipped to be set on fire and shot at officers.

Other items were displayed by the police such as golf balls, bike helmets, goggles and gas masks.

However, two prominent weapons displayed -- a crossbow and a chainsaw -- were not seized from rioters and were instead taken Thursday from a man who has been described as mentally troubled.

"The weaponry you see before you today is just small portion of the evidence that we gathered of what is most certainly a criminal conspiracy of not dozens, but hundreds," Blair said.

He said many of those "hundreds" came from outside of Toronto, but did not have specific numbers.

While praising his officers' restraint and professionalism, Blair also promised a review into every aspect of the way police conducted themselves during the G20 summit.

Blair announced Tuesday that a review team would provide an assessment of the "strengths and weaknesses in the police force's G20 plans" -- and will help to better prepare for future events like the summit.

"We feel it's extremely important, with an event of this unprecedented size and complexity, to ensure that we examine everything we did and how we did it," Blair said in a statement released Tuesday morning.

"This will ensure that our procedures are tested thoroughly, and that we identify any areas that may require further examination.

"I have no doubt that the SMAART report will also benefit other law-enforcement agencies in Canada and abroad."

The review team is called the Toronto Police Service Summit Management After Action Review Team (SMAART).

Blair also announced the creation of a special investigative team to examine crimes committed during the G20.

"We will investigate every crime committed at the Summit, and track down and charge all those responsible. I would ask those who have information, images, or video to work with us to hold accountable those who have chosen violence," he said in a news release.

Later Tuesday, the Toronto Police Services Board issued a statement saying that both the province's Special Investigations Unit -- which investigates incidents of serious injury or death involving police officers -- and the Office of the Independent Public Review Director, which deals with public complaints, are on hand should any events related to protests need reviewing.

"The Board looks forward to the findings of these agencies' investigation of any cases of serious injury or any public complaints," the statement read.

Toronto police also announced they arrested a British man on Thursday for allegedly impersonating a peace officer.

According to police, 29-year-old Charlie Veitch was filming the security fence around the summit. It is alleged that he identified himself as an undercover police officer. He was eventually apprehended at Pearson International airport prior to boarding a flight.

Police actions questioned

Blair's announcement comes as questions are being raised about the tactics used by police, from the way they allowed the "Black Bloc" anarchists to run amok downtown, to questionable crackdowns on protesters during what were widely seen as lawful, peaceful protests.

The handling of a standoff at the Queen and Spadina intersection on Sunday has drawn intense criticism. Police cordoned off both protesters and anyone else caught in the crossfire.

Toronto Mayor David Miller said he regretted some innocent people "got caught up" in the arrests, and said it was the result of police having to deal with "Black Bloc" tactics.

Summit officers seemed to take a more aggressive approach to policing on Sunday, after riots during the international conference on Friday left police cars torched, stores vandalized and over 900 protesters arrested.

Blair said less than half of those 900 people will be charged.

Comments are now closed for this story

Gregoryd
said

For all you people saying protesters knew the risk and so should not complain about the treatment by police; I would disagree. You also talk about freedom in the same breath and how we don't know what it is like to live in a communist country. I agree our country is a great place to live but the right to protest is part of the freedom of democracy. Protesters should not have to consider being abused in some instances by police or anyone for that matter. To somehow say they must sacrifice their democratic right to protest or suffer any consequences thrown at them by the police is actually undemocratic. Now what went on on Saturday was unnaceptable and should of been dealth with. However the police, abviously, because of the criticism, went over board and started infringing on peoples rights to protest. This is a slippery slope folks. If this is allowed and tolerated it is not far to where protests would not be allowed and then I wonder what your opinion would be of our great democracy. Take it for what it is the police did not do a good job here. However you can not blame the cops on the street. The people responsible for terms of engagement are well above them. They basically just follow orders. I notice the one person in the media is the cheif of police and he seems to be trying to cover his butt. They had a billion dollars and they were either not prepared or just plain incompetent. We need to thank the officers on the street but the ones at the top need to go.

Henry Wysmulek
said

Seems all the whinning is only from writers for left wing rags that support the protestors?Surpise, surprise?What does any leftie know about Democracy?

Jay
said

To ouifyg: It seems that anyone nowadays that either tries to "force" change, is upset with the government, or protests in the post 9/11 world is either a "thug", "hoodlum", or "terrorist". It's how government makes those who are p*ssed off with getting ripped off look like the enemy instead of the only people with two brain cells to rub together...

JMB
said

I see the police and their support groups have been posting comments to sway public opinion, to which they admit doing. The demonstrators were not complicit in allowing these black bloc members to do anything. There are many videos to support this. The POLICE were complicit when they abandoned their vehicles and left the area and purposely allowed these idiots to do their damage.As much as I detest these black bloc idiots (if they weren't actually agent provocateurs) it's absurd to call vandalism and all forms of violence "terrorism" just so the police can arrest and detain them indefinitely in their secret courts. We always knew they'd use the anti-terrorism laws against our own citizens. If that's terrorism, then the cops who arrested innocent shoppers and news media and mistreated people should also be defined as "terrorists" and arrested under the same set of laws. “Those who would give up Essential Liberty to purchase a little Temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety. ~ Benjamin Franklin

JMB
said

Lynn
said

I really would like to understand how these "protestors" have something to complain about..yes we don't live in a perfect world, I have been out of work for over a year thanks to the recession but I know I am lucky compared to people who live in a third world country..stop complaining and be thankful!I also think the police did an excellent job..I always say "better safe than sorry"Oh and about the conditions for the prisoners..give me a break, you are lucky you even got food and water, if this was another country you may not have been so lucky..And last but not least the hypocrites "Black Bloc" really should be protesting naked or an outfit made of tree leaves because all the clothing, shoes and cell phone cases were made by "large corporations" stupid, pathetic, spoiled brats...

Mike
said

To all you whiny children crying about Canada's "police state," "police brutality" and "violation" of your so-called rights:
I suggest you do a little travelling around the world. Spit on police officers in other countries, get in their faces, stick cameras in their faces, refuse to hand over ID. You may then learn the true meaning of police state, police brutality, and poor prison conditions. And you may then appreciate the restraint and professionalism of the officers who had to babysit you last weekend.
You have no idea how good you have it in this country. If you don't like it here, get out.

pauline
said

Anarchists - destroying our City -the Police should have come down a lot harder on them. To think that this destruction was done possibly by students, our next generation - God help us all. If students, they should be removed from the institutions they are enrolled in - taxpayers are paying for ther destruction AND their education.

Niagara George
said

"Toronto Mayor David Miller said he regretted some innocent people "got caught up" in the arrests." Today, I lost all respect for David Miller. 500 people who were arrested will not be charged! That is not 'some' innocent people. That is more than half of those arrested. Deplorable!! Again, the mindless neoCon mantra of 'lock them up and throw away the keys' is spouted. I even read that 'they should have been shot.' Disgraceful to think you are Canadian.

Smiling Jim
said

We should not let the 'terrorists', thugs dictate where the G8/G20 meet.This group of leaders represent the largest economies in the world. We should want to showcase the best we have to offer.Find the thugs, terrorists and lock them away. Just lock them away.

ted
said

Why don't they just use video conferencing and avoid the whole situation for these meetings???

And as for a police state, well perhaps if your business was the one being vandalized you wouldn't be saying that. People have the right to protest, but some groups are just there for violence and destruction.

Pat in Pierrefonds
said

Hmmm let's see, according to dictionary.com:

Terrorist: a person, usually a member of a group, who uses or advocates terrorism.

Terrorism: the use of violence and threats to intimidate or coerce, esp. for political purposes.

I'd say that the police chief is right on the money...

Rtoronto
said

It's difficult to hear some comments regarding police cars being left for the protesters. There was video showing officers being attacked while in thier cars. One cannot just drive a vehicle through a maze of people on the streets. The officers had no choice but to leave the vehicles otherwise risking protester injury in an attempt to drive away. Were the media vans left on purpose , of course not. Becuase a vehicle is on a street does not justify breaking its windows or setting it afire. Many will try to claim this as an expression of some belief but it was nothing more then senseless violence.

firstMickey
said

Dear terrorists,
If you can't stand the heat, stay out of the kitchen.
Nobody in their right mind feels sorry for you.
You asked for trouble. Suck it up, princess.

Pip
said

Old Ted suggests "In planning for the next G8-G20 meeting, take the billion dollars and and build a luxury hotel and runway in the middle of Baffin Island ". Lets go one better: have all the nations of the G8 and G20 contribute to a landing strip and conference on center on St. Helena. That remote location would obviate the need for security and bring income to an otherwise poor nation. Perhaps the site of Napoleon's exile would make one or two of the leaders think. Such a site would also be inaccessible to the anarchists and rent-a-mob crowd who come out of the woodwork for international meetings of any kind. Funny, isn't it, how they hide behind their charter rights of free expression after being arrested for mayhem. Funny how they turn up with weapons, or items that are easily converted to weapons, for a peaceful rally.

Tom Shanahan
said

How about reporting on the huge number of Toronto residents who actually APPROVE AND AGREE with the tactics used by the Toronto Police this past weekend during the G20 summit ?!Tom ShanahanPickering, ON.

clyde b
said

I watch CTV news all my life. I find it appalling how CTV is so against your own local police force. Amazing, and it's not just reporting news. Someone on your staff hates the police. Your coverage is starting to look immature and childish. Also, spend a little more time on our Repatriation Hero's.

Jermey
said

To the many police members from varies police forces across Canada....thank you!! To those protestors who refused to take direction from authorities, violent protestors, or memebers of the media you placed yourself in the tie straps. When the police direct you to leave an area....you better leave! I don't get it when people have to be told 3 times. As for an independent review of police actions, totally a waste of taxpayers money. Again thank you to all the men and women who wear the police uniform...I am proud of their actions and professionalism>

VS, Mississauga
said

Many Thanks to the police and the Security Integrated Unit for the Great job done on Sunday to protect the city and people. Police is part of the society whose efforts are directed toward minority group not complying with laws of the society, trying to destroy and deceive the society by imposing their own rules or to be accurate no rules of anarchy.
No one has the rights to blame the police for the use of excessive force. Protesters knew all the consequences of their protests on the streets during G-20 by the previous such experience in other countries. However, they had to learn their lessons hard on their own experience.

PB_Toronto
said

@RobMight I suggest you take a shower, get a haircut, find a job and move out from your parents basement then Ill welcome you ro the real world. Its pointless to argue with you as you are clearly warped in your sense of right and wrong. Anyone who can even remotely defend the actions of those hooligans spouting rights, police state, communism is clearly misguided. No doubt the majority of Canadians believe in basic rights and freedoms but only wingnuts like yourself believe they should somehow supercede public and police safety. Once the riots started, people like you standing around provoking the police and literally making it difficult for them to clear these thugs out all for the sake of 'making apoint" is nonsense without a tread of common sense. Onhce things went sounth the police are obliged to protect public and property and the peaceful protesters are obliged to leave the area. If bot, well..too bad. The police dont have time to debate charter with every nut job out there because they feel they did nothing wrong although they are standing in a literal war zone.Its unfortunate that you have received one too many speeding tickets or had your application rejected as a police officer but its clear that you have some issues there.Its my humble opinion that if everyone acted like you we would be living in another Somolia where there asre no laws or charter or police state and its my suggestion you move there if thats what you desire

Craig Toronto
said

The Black Bloc should have been stopped in their tracks. They weren't. Instead, we were told police were going to track them down and arrest them later. Later that day, people were being struck after being restrained, dragged facedown along the pavement, and fenced in and prevented from leaving by walls of cops telling them to leave or else. The next day, peaceful protesters are met with tear gas, rubber bullets shot into one girl's face, and more surround and arrest tactics, all after clearing and coordinating the peaceful protest with the police ahead of time.Toronto police threw away a lot of their good reputation this weekend, and I for one don't think the cost was worth it.

Moloky Boomba
said

Wow, arrows. You actually need a bow to shoot arrows, I'm afraid to say. They certainly didn't seize one of those. Where are the imaginary molotov cocktails they claimed to have seized late last week? Did they drink them thinking they were vodka?

L
said

I have to say, the comments as always are really entertaining. But it does amaze me that people do not really understand the rights and freedoms we have in this country. You have a right to protest, but within reason, if the police tell you to stand back (as you could clearly hear them saying on much of the coverage) and you chose to disobey, that is an offense under the law (disobeying a police order), you therefore are subject to arrest. The truly peaceful protesters left or some detained and released without charge, so what is the issue? If you were out in the streets you knew the risk, your right to protest was not infringed by the police asking you to leave or disperse, you also have a right to protest by letter, online, in front of a video camera etc, but the police have a greater obligation to protect the general public, that trumps your right to protest where and when you please. To those saying this is like a communist or facist state, you have no idea what you are talking about, if it was you would be dead, in jail being tortured, or severely beaten, ask those in Tienanmen in 1989 what its really like. And the big question, if you were peaceful and just wanted to be heard, why did you all stand by and let these criminals damage property and destroy things while you just stood there taking pictures? I think you really liked the chaos and wanted to be in the action. So don't complain when you get caught in the aftermath.

N Game
said

I wonder how much of that stuff was planted by the police?I bet half the police didn't even know what the other half was doing. What you do is you get the Toronto police to play riot squad. Then you bring in some outside police to pretend to be violent demonstrators. When they are arrested, they disappear into the system because they can just explain away they were undercover.Do you see how it works now? How the violence went unchallenged?I can't wait for blair to admit the police cars were left behind on purpose, as decoys to lure out the violent demonstrators. Give it a week, that'll be the next little explanation.No wonder he's begging for everyone to just forget about what happened and move on. Dirty secrets are slowly coming out.

Mike
said

THUGS IN BLUE

Oarion E
said

A terrorist is someone who terrorizes the general public and operates outside of the law.That definition also is befitting of the conduct of the police on Sat and Sun.There's footage on the internet of police dressed as black bloc. How do we know they weren't the ones who formed the groups, but also engaged in the violence?Blair admits he mislead everyone on the powers of the police. He should resign and a full inquiry should be held on the legality of how the police behaved towards the civilian population of Toronto.

Jail was uncomfortable????
said

I think some of these protestors could use a good Tazing.... just enough to let them know they do not have the right to destroy public, private, and police property. The detention cells were chilly, boo who.... show some respect to your fellow Canadians and you can stay out of jail. If you are a peaceful protestor, not bright enough to stay away from these trouble makers...maybe a little Taz would smarten you up.

Dan Cambridge
said

Having viewed several videos of the Toronto G20 incidents, I have come to the same conclusion as Chief Blair.
The Black Bloc anarchists are terrorists. They are the reason the cost of security for the G20 and G8 was so high. You commit the crime you do the time, so stop whinning about the Police Action.Our Country may not be perfect but I'll take it over other countries who do not have the right to free speech.

Gerry
said

Barry E. if you do not want to support the police feel free to out front than.

Daniel From Toronto
said

@ Jeff Langille, Actually most of them refused direct orders to obey an officers command, half of them were taunting and throwing objects like rocks and there own sign at the police force. Our officers did a great job and for the idiots who think that it was police brutality, go to quebec in the next coming days, im pretty damn sure that they will be beefing up their own security for the many protests heading there way.

Jim
said

I like to know how the Black Bloc would feel if someone targeted their property for destruction because they ddn't agree with the tactics or even the very existence of the Black Bloc? Of course we all know that these terrorists would hide behind the very laws they break when they commit acts of vandalism, but it is an interesting question.

NS
said

The left wing nuts that are charged at these events, should have to pay for the damages, not the goverment, taxpayers or insurance companies. The police did a good job, all things considered.

Richard in Ontario
said

@Old TedI keep hearing this comment and some similar, like Iqaluit etc. Could you gives us your best count of the number of hotel rooms on Baffin Island or wherever you folks would like these conventions held. There are usually more than 20 attendees involved. One thing I agree is that no more Large Conventions should be held in Toronto, since as much as the people there consider it a World Class city, they can't handle these types of events. Too much whining.

Randy
said

Some questions need to be asked (but the media fails to ask them): If Police Chief Blair is so ready to make up laws to suit his needs - why should we believe the weapons that were displayed by the police really came from demonstrators? What else are the police ready to make up (that's lying, right?) in order to justify using weapons on unarmed demonstrators ? If someone who makes up laws is part of the G20 review - what does that say for the credibility of the report?

Con
said

If that was my neighbourhood, I would not have shown as much restraint as the police officers! I have seen football hooligans behave better than these "protesters".

Mike
said

Based on the CTV headline and atricle "Police mislead public on security fence law" can you not then say that the police themselves by doing this caused more problems for themselves.

Gregoryd
said

I will do the review for them. On Saturday the police restrained themselves too much and lost control.On Sunday because of this criticism they over reacted and went overboard and did not restrain themselves at all.Ok now that is done the Police Chief should resign as he had a billion dollars to supply security and it was done poorly on both days. This would solve the issue and we can move on without wasting more money on a review. I find it interesting that so many are reluctant to criticise the police. They have a job to do and if it is done poorly they should be held accountable. Yes I know everyone says they put their lives at risk to do their job but that does not mean they can not be taken to task for their actions. Actually oil rig drillers, miners, and construction workers all have a higher risk than police officers of being killed at work and we would not hesitate to criticize them.

farmer fred
said

Seems to me there were two sets of hooligans and thugs on the weekend. Some wore black and some wore blue.

Kevin in Oshawa
said

Everyone who says the police showed "restraint" and are "praising" them for their "efforts"; i ask you this: Where were YOU when the G20 summit was going on? Were YOU there in the thick of things? I don't think so; however, I was. Things were out of control, police were out of control. So if you didn't experience it first hand, you have no opinion about it.

Ron
said

I get a blast about the comments from Innocent bystanders. Everyone in Jail is innocent. Everyone they arrested said they were innocent. I'm sure some were.
Do you people honestly believe that the idiots doing the damage would tell the cops that "yeah, we set the cars on fire?" No matter what the cops did, they would be wrong. No one was seriously injured, no one died. The police deserve our support and praise. The Rights activists need to shut up and maybe distance themselves from the idiots that caused the damange....Or maybe they condone it?

trunorth
said

Having watched and listened to Scott Laurie's account of his tour through the detention centre, I am absolutely shocked! How dare those big bad policemen/women put the terrorists and rabble-rousers is such facilities! They should have been taken to the Royal York or at least the Grand Hotel and served up the finest for their deeds. Give me a break, already!

Bob
said

I can not believe anyone could consider the actions of the police as heavyhanded!! The only problem is that the police didnt take action as soon as the first window was broken. If these goons were trashing your house or property, how many of you bleeding hearts would want police presence immediately? The only problem is that Canadian Law says they have to be released!!

Chris Plant
said

Congrats to the Police for doing a tough job and for showing as much restraint that is possible in such a situation, I would of reacted with alot more force then they did.

Sue
said

Weapons found, baseball bats, a BB gun and arrows, golf balls, bike helmets, goggles and gas masks. Thank you so much for getting these weapons of mass destruction off the street, I feel so much safer now. Ha Ha Ha!

Jim - North Saanich, BC
said

This is a case that you're damned if you do and damned if you don't. The police were ordered to hold the perimeter of the "Red Zone" and not break ranks and the efforts of the Black Bloc terrorists were intended to create a diversion and a pursuit by police likely so some of their lunatic members might penetrate the "Red Zone" as was the case in Quebec City.

Where were the righteous, law-abiding citizens amongst the "peaceful protesters" who were unwilling to affect a citizen's arrest of these thugs or was it simply endorsement of this form of terrorism? A few "law-abiding" citizens can easily arrest one punk or perhaps they too were "terrorized" as well? If I'm going to criticize anyone, it is the spineless individuals, media included, who allowed this to go on and did nothing about it whatsoever. Imagine the criticism of the police had they broken ranks and one of these black-hooded criminals threatened or even harmed one of the G-20 delegates.

To all of those who are screaming about the violation of "their" rights, I would suggest that the right of assembly is well entrenched in our society and is two-sided. You may disagree with some or all the G-20 stands for but I believe it had the right to assemble and do so without any fear of harm. There was a mob on the streets of Toronto with some members who were intent on denying that very right to others. If you were one of those, you have absolutely no right to complain about the actions of the police and clearly some of you were intent on doing just that. Given the mob mentality of some "protesters", the police did a superb job given the circumstances.

cw
said

Kate said - do you have alink to this video you mention?When I read the G20 lead story on your homepage today, it alarmed me when I came to the sentence about the police having to deal with the black bloc tactics. Please go online and search for one photographers shots and his statement about time codes in his photography, They show police officers exiting a police car un screwing their gas tank cap and leaving the car unattended.Thanks, if you cant find it lemme know and I'll get on there.

MARG MM
said

The police are "damned if they do and damned if they don't". Given the circumstances, I believe they did the best that they could. When you have a bunch of hooligans/terrorists, hell bent on destroying anything in their path, the thing that comes to mind is "beat the crap" out of them. However imagine the uproar, if that had happened, but on the other hand, because they didn't use force, they are condemned for that as well. Unfortunatly, these low life individuals, are going to show up at every event, no matter where, to protest a cause that they don't even seem to have, it is just an excuse to cause damage, and since the media gives them a lot of coverage, their goal has been met. Then the cowards go off somewhere, change into regular clothes, and blend back into the crowd.In Canada we do have the right to peaceful protest, but I still haven't heard what any of these so-called peaceful protestors were actually protesting about. It is unfortunate that people that ended up in the wrong place at the wrong time were arrested, but they knew going in that would be a possibility. If you found yourself in that circumstance, too bad, but complaining about your "accomodations" also doesn't help your cause.

V
said

Why do some people use the term anarchist to anything that relates to protestors causing violence. The majority of the people protesting are anarchists (go read the definition of an anarchist and you may find that you are also one) and the majority wasn't causing any violence at all. Perhaps the billion dollar price tag had a quota of people being arrested. There will always be the few breaking windows and destroying property, they could even be your high school sons or daughters that went there seeking some action.

Bill in BC
said

You commit criminal acts, damage property injure people in violent acts and then are suprised to be arrested? POOR MUFFIN! Now pay the bill for the damages you caused!

Mike
said

CTV news you should be taking the side of the police not a bunch of loosers who have nothing better to do then block intersections, break windows and complain after arrested. Wow they didn't get food at the proper time. They should have stayed home and would have got a good meal and water. The police should have been harder and more forcefull on the first day. 6 or 7 police cars burnt. That comes out of our tax dollars. I praise the police but think they should have bashed a few more heads of these loosers who most didn't even know why they were there.

TGID
said

These violent protestors, are an embarassment to Canada. Proud of the way that the police handled the situation, don't blame the police blame these protestors who have the maturity level of a 6 year old.

Toufic Nayel
said

Isn't it Ironic how the "Black Bloc" terrorists methods resemble the same tactics used by the police provocateurs who were discovered disrupting the peaceful protests at Chateau Montebello Quebec two summers ago. They were inciting violence and were confronted by those wishing to demonstrate peacefully, and were asked to remove their masks etc. Upon realizing that their efforts would prove useless, these black-masked individuals dove into the police line and were absorbed by the cops rather than being beaten.

Albertaboy111
said

Was this before or after he admitted that there was no 5 meter law passed, it was all a lie to try and keep people away from the fence, and many arrests made under the guise of this law were illegal at best.

Jack from Hamilton
said

I applaud the Police. The Protestors need to be charged as domestic terrorists and thrown in jail for a very long time.

Al in Orillia
said

Next time I hope they'll put up the detainees in a comfortable hotel room and at least have a buffet for them, oh yes and when the "peaceful protesters" shout down the police and scream insults in their faces, I hope they'll say "please go ahead and run amuck", and when the media gets in their faces with cameras and won't move, the officers had better ask where they should strike a pose and if they believe that a crowd is infiltrated with criminals and could become violent at any minute, that's their problem and they had better not inconvenience anyone ever again, otherwise the protester will surely say that we now live in a police state and who knows better what's best for us then the ...."peaceful protesters"

CS
said

To all you defending the police:

Police brutality against a law abiding citizen is illegal, immoral, and contrary to everything this country was founded upon.

Falsely arresting a law abiding citizen and detaining him/her is illegal, immoral, and contrary to everything this country was founded upon.

There exist allegations that these acts were committed by officers this past weekend. If there is any chance that these allegations are true, they need to be investigated.

Anne
said

To GraydenEveryone who decided to go there on Sunday knew the risks, they knew there had been problems the day before and that innocent store owners had property damaged and that police cars had been burned, they knew all of this, yet they decided to go there anyways! I am not a sadist but I believe the police did what they had to do.

Jimmy, NS
said

Unless my eyes are playing tricks on me, then I'd say this video is quite conclusive that the police are in fact the black bloc themselves, at least some members. YouTube EXPOSED! - G20 Police in Black Bloc Anarchist Gear @ 0:45 - Toronto - Quite enlightnening video to watch.

CS
said

A review of the police's behavior needs to be done independently. There is no reason for some of the acts some officers committed this past weekend - such as police brutality against peaceful protesters. The officers responsible for these acts need to be locked up behind bars like the criminals they are.

John, Halifax, NS
said

Look, I'm no fan of protests, let alone violent protests (which are in fact different) however, allowing the police to conduct their own investigation is questionable at best. Earlier this morning, I would have said sure, makes sense and it's cheap, then this bombshell was dropped:"Toronto's police chief is admitting there never was a five-metre rule that had people fearing arrest if they strayed too close to the G20 security perimeter. "If you're going to lie about laws on the books in Canada, I sure can't back you to be reliable to "judge" your actions. Sorry, you lost my support.

Cass
said

Amen to the police services during the G20.People involved in the Black Bloc are savages and are disgraceful to Toronto. Thank you RCMP, OPP and Toronto Police Service for keeping us safe!

NotInMyName
said

The so-called 'anarchists' were police officers, period, full stop.

They were agent provocateurs. The Surete du Quebec did the same thing as did other countless police organizations world-wide.

Why do all of you defend a multi-nationalist, globalist Kabal of banksters?

If the G8/G20 were really, truly welcomed by the people, they wouldn't have needed 1.1 billion dollars and their own army to occupy our city while they met.

Democracy in Canada was suspended for 72 hours.

ouifyg
said

Why is every criminal nowadays called a 'terrorist'? The rioters were clearly in the wrong, but they are hardly terrorists. Gimme a break.

DC in AB
said

You can bet all the wacky lefty nut jobs posting on this forum would be first to cry for the police if it had been their property that was damaged. Hypocrites the lot of them.The police did a commendable job, and we should be proud of them.As always, Prof. Pye Chart, you make a great point.

PeteBar
said

God bless the police, Thank you for taking out the trash!
These protesters are the same people that spend 10 years finishing a BA in Creative Arts and think that society owes them everything!
Instead of protesting and causing all sorts of trouble, how about staying home and doing your work like "normal" people do. You want to see injustice, Go hold a PROTEST in Irak or another really supress country and let me know how it goes.
God Bless Canada.

lc
said

So many calling for a police state defies logic.Hope most of the comments on this board are coming from neo-con staffers because if the general population are so delusional that they support police calling their fellow citizens terrorists Canada is indeed in trouble.Political gibberish is one thing but rhetoric coming out of a police chief that sounds like tabloid trash is insane!Tororntonians should demand for this morons resignation.

DL
said

For those complaining about having their butt clubbed I suggest next time clear out when asked 3 times. Let the police do their jobs. TOO BAD YOU HAD YOUR A.. KICKED. Perhaps even you can learn to be responsible. All the social activists make me ill the way they see themselves so holy. Get Real people.

Allan K, Vancouver, BC
said

I still find it very shocking for all of the police praise. Some border on the notion that security should trump everything else, including human rights. Really, it should be a balance (no police state, no suppression of expression and no widespread surveillance of communication or actions, but no anarchy and no absence of government or law or security either), and the balance was upset last weekend twice... due to both the violent tactics of the black bloc and the flip-flopped reaction done by the police. Even the police say they shouldn't be completely proud of what they did then, and good thing they're reviewing the whole case too.However, the comment made by the police chief that some people were complicit in letting black bloc protesters should be taken carefully. Although there were a few who let the black bloc run amok, most of the populace and the peaceful protesters would not be able to stop the black bloc anyway, especially if they carried weapons and objects intended for damaging property... if thrown at people, someone innocent would have died. That citizen's arrest attempt filmed on CTV for example was a very dangerous thing to attempt, and for the person who did that, I thank you for trying to bring civility back to the streets of Toronto.

Tony from southern ontario
said

The ultra-leftists are terrorists. Put these extremists in jail!! These people are nothing but NDP backed communists!!

cc
said

Wow. THis guy could have done an interview for free not paid a dime for ths and then the press he notified was in the US. This guy is lying through his teeth! Some are now saying the cops went on strike but not stopping more violent protest on sat.

Gregoryd
said

I would say it is simple to review this. On Saturday the police used too much restraint. On Sunday they over reacted and did not use enough restraint. There the reveiw is done and I saved them all the mega money they will spend on it in an effort to cross the billion dollar mark for security. Why not we are paying for it. Now that I have saved them all this money I think it is only fair I get 10% for my analytical efforts. hmmm

Tim
said

Can we get a count of the number of businesses that had their windows busted or were looted?

Martin Laflamme
said

It's just like the chief of police said - some were just there to cause destruction. Some probably just wanted to be on TV. I hope they do jail time. They don't have a cause and probably don't even understand anything about world politics and economics.I did see a FARMER protesting probably worried about free trade and globalization. That's a fair protest.However, the ones who set police car(s) on fire and destroyed small businesses - they need to go to jail and do time. I feel bad for the small businesses especially.Martin

Dan
said

It's about time the "T" word was used to describe these people...Change the law to treat them as enemys of Canada and the free life it repersents....

Mike
said

People who think that a black bloc is some sort of organization or group really need to be educated.

It isn't THE black bloc, it is A black bloc. It's a tactic of anarchists, not a group that conspires. These are seen at all global summits and large protests.

That's why thinking police can target some leadership of this group is hilarious. Police ran away from a black bloc in Toronto and then took it out on peaceful protesters due to their incompetence and embarassment from the day before.

Tim
said

I'm more concerned with the terrorism from the police this weekend than a few anarchists.The chief of police has been caught in at least two obvious lies.When will he be fired?

Josephine
said

So, now Blair is blaming the protesters for the fact that several idiots were allowed to destroy property.What a cop-out. Personally, I think things went down exactly as He planned. The over indulgement of king-sized Egos was soooooooo very evident in the whole escapade.You see, if Blair had ordered the property damagers (terrorists aren't interested in property damage. They are interested in hurting people), then there would have been next to no justification for Sunday's sheer numbers of police presence. The riot gear was way OverKill.No Gentlemen (pardon that word though, because to this 67 year old, there were no gentlemen in uniform), you were not the stars in the next Canadian made movie.

SS
said

I support the police in this matter. Perhaps it wasn't 'perfect', but this was far from a perfect situation. This was the wrong place to have this conference, and most of us knew it. So, you want to complain about protesters being held out in the rain? Yeah, I know it can suck, but the cops were kind of 'stuck' out there too, don't you think? I'm sure they really wanted to be there just to ruin the day. :P You want to complain about how police 'baited' vandals with abandoned cars? Seriously? How about people just DON'T BURN THE CARS?? Wow, there's a thought. You want to comment about the brutality of police? I want to talk about the brutality of the thugs and vandals, who damage property of the innocent and then hide like cowards. I saw a bit of footage of a protestor telling a masked person to get away from their group. "You can't be with us if you're wearing a mask!" - I was very proud of this person. That is someone who understands what can happen.

Steve B
said

Dont' really care about what has happened, it has passed. While everybody is focused on this, the bodies of two Canadian soldiers, medics dedicated to helping those in need, are being returned to Canada today. They will arrive later tonight at the Office of the Chief Coroner of Ontario. This is where my thoughts are, not about nonsense on the weekend.

JustJeff1972
said

After reading the comments(104 of them to date), there are a couple of common threads. One: no matter what the police do or do not do, it is their fault. The people who were protesting and/or rioting disobyed legal orders to cease and desist/move back. You know what, play with fire, you get burnt. Two: the police are not perfect, no one is, if we were all pefect, there would be no need for rioting in the streets, etc. Three: it sickens me that those individuals who whine and bitch and carry on about their precious feelings probably do not live in Toronto, have never seen Toronto, and possibly could not find Toronto on a map. We should be thankful that we live in a country where the majority of people can protest and make their views known with no fear what-so-ever. HOWEVER, if you break the rule of law, be ready to face whatever punishment you may face. And finally, to all those who 'shame on the police', or 'rights violation' and all that. IF YOU DON'T LIKE IT HERE, GET OUT OF MY COUNTRY!

Steve in Ottawa
said

1, The Summit security bill did not really cost $1 billion. That is just the invoicing. The police got all new vehicles, new radios, new uniforms and helmets, new computer systems, all of which had to be purchased anyway. This will all dispersed across Canada, and will save future procurement items, which is where it should be accounted for.2. Second, not much crime took place. A Montreal Canadiens game has more property damage than this Summit had. The Black Bloc are not terrorists, they are simply hooligans, in the old way of speaking. We have had the lower elements of society, the disenfranchised who are frustrated, engage in property damage for years. This was common 100 years ago when our laws were made. They are certainly not terorists, intent on killing people for political control. They are immature males without the ability to deal with their personal frustration. The ancient solution to this was corporal punishment, the solution over the last 200 years was financial restituion with some incarceration and the current solution is a long, expensive court process with rehabilitation and probation. All of these solutions worked because these people are weak and not committed to any cause and do not like being responsible. They are trying to draw attention to themselves because they were unloved when they were little.3. The police security service did an excellent job. No major crimes were committed, no terrorism took place and the level of vandalism was quite low, even though it shocked Toronto the good. Time to move on.

Dave in Qc.
said

If you want to legitimize this review you had better have some non partisans on commitee or the Lefties will scream cover up and the Righties will scream see they were justified.You have to have non police members involved. Personally I have trouble with the Police driving up a couple of police cars and just walking away and leaving them there.Seems like this was the only place downtown where parked police cars were left unattended.If they were there to stop violence why did they just stand back and not arrest people smashing store fronts? Not condeming them just asking a Question.

Lisa
said

It is a shame that downtown Toronto was destroyed. However, it makes one look to wonder why these "black clad" people are so angry. It just was not a few people who took part in the riot, it was hundreds. People are increasingly becoming angry about the direction our society is going. I do not like to be pessimistic but I foresee more and more people who just can't take it anymore i.e job losses, HST tax. I think this behaviour is a sign of things to come.

Dave in Calgary
said

Again to all those that are whining about how the police did their job, shut up and come join us in the real world. The police did what they had to do! what alot of the everyday people should have done themselves and that is take these cowards that ran around with their faces covered causing trouble and kick the crap out of them instead you all stood around and wathed them run ammuck and did nothing. Did nobody in the city thats thinks the world begins ands ends in Toronto not understand while they were watching this that they would be paying for all this damage, you know TAXES. So just be quite and let it go just as you did while all the damage was happening

tron
said

How many of the people commenting "the police did their job" and that "$1 billion for security was worth it" were actually there to witness what was happening? Sure, you've probably seen images of police cars going up in flames countless times and hooligans dressed in black smashing windows in the downtown core, and you fail to realize that you're buying into the media's story that barely scratches the surface (and won't even attempt to investigate if the police were in any way responsible for provoking any of the violence its hypnotized you with).
Hundreds of people were arrested for simply being in a public space exercising their free rights (some passers by were just in the wrong place at the wrong time), yet the police found it necessary to gas and shoot rubber bullets at them. There was no violence on Sunday, likely because the black bloc skipped town already after doing their photo ops so that people at home could buy into the fairytale that all this money was necessary. Thanks to this accepting viewpoint, the GTA now has a brand new arsenal of gear so they can crush civil liberties even more. And who knows, maybe next time when a larger chunk of the unified Canadian population has something they will come together to ACTUALLY protest against it will be real bullets and real jail time.
Bye Canada, the dream is over.

Zainab Amadahy
said

So the cops are playing off the media again, displaying items they call �weapons� supposedly seized from activists: baseball bats, a BB gun, arrows, golf balls, bike helmets, goggles, gas masks, a crossbow and a chainsaw.

Even assuming this story is true (a huge assumption), what is it about seizing these items that in any way excuses the criminal behaviours of police: illegal searches and seizures of persons and premises; the physical, sexual and psychological abuse of detainees; kidnapping people on the street; misleading the public about the law; curtailing people's legal rights to walk the streets and engage in peaceful protest, etc.?

And given that they committed these abuses, lied about them and have refused to be accountable why should they have any credibility concerning their claim that these items were being used as (or intended to be used as) weapons? They have admitted to deliberately misleading the public about the �expanded security law� and it�s clearly documented that they violated it.

But, have no fear. Blair has committed to conduct a "review" of police actions. (Meaning deceitful cops will investigate other lying and abusive cops.) I feel safer already.

Paul in Victoria
said

I have yet to hear an apology to the people of Toronto from our Prime Minister for all the trauma the people went through. It appears to me the Chain of Command from Prime Minister Harper down was hell bent on spending over a $billion on security and police enforcement and had no coordinated plan to deploy the thousands of police to catch the 150 violent group they knew beforehand would cause damage. Harper should immediately put funds in trust to the people of Toronto to pay for all the damage and legal costs. The City should also be paid pain and suffering for the trauma the citizens went through. It was all a total disaster no matter which way you spin it.

Joel
said

Shame on the Toronto Police.

Dayton
said

We've come a long way from "Shoot first ask question's later". Those protesters should consider themselves fortunate they were protesting in Canada.

camefromfuture
said

PM of Canada Mr. Harper likes to talk about human rights issues in China.
Next time, Chinese government may ask him to look back Toronto G20 Summit footage on youtube, & read reports from medias.

Keith in Brampton
said

"Terrorists" is right; the Black Bloc members should be tried as such.

NancyLou
said

The police did the best they could in a new and unpredictable situation. Imagine being a target on the ground, not wanting anyone to die on YOUR watch, not knowing if you will be attacked from above, below or around (remember the crossbows ). Let's not fault the police for being imperfect. They did well. It was hard for everyone. A review and learnings is wise -- 'armchair quarterbacking' is not.

JACK IN VAN
said

If Protesters are "Terrorists" then these "leaders" are DICTATORS!Give me a break!

Summit a Riot
said

You can't believe anything this man says! He's a consummate politician who even just this morning admits he lied to the public about the law as it related to the fence and then to further demonstrate his lack of respect for citizens, he smiled as he made the admission. You can't trust them, you can't rely on them to be truthful so you can just imagine how many people have been mistreated, even convicted on their bed of lies. If you can't put your trust and faith in what they call the "top cop" then our system is broken! This man should be removed from his position immediately. He's a disgrace!!!

proud soldier
said

MOVE BACK, MOVE BACK, i heard it over and over ! do not say these folks were innocent they willfully disobayed an order given by the police. That gives the poilce the right and the obligation to arrest them, so stop crying that the police were not doing there job!

Protest or Terrorist
said

Why were protestors allowed to march on Monday? Aren't these the same terrorists that were out on Sat and Sun? Why weren't they beaten down? (tongue in cheek)Protestors say violence is against people and property damage is when you destroy or damage bricks & morter. Wow, do you remember the property damage on 911? Those protestors flew planes into buildings! I'm glad there wasn't any violence on that day by terrorists. For those thinking protestors should be held financially accountable, how much money does a protestors have from selling candles, incense, and tie dye t shirts?Lastly in the words of prostestors claiming free expression and free speach..prostestors at the G20 are a#swh@le$

CC in Thunder Bay
said

Sadly, criminals, thugs and general ne'er do wells make us all suffer by their actions - such is and always has been the case in all facets of our society. Those who chose to attend these summits as peaceful objectors or mere observers knew full well or ought to have known, the risk involved & they contribute by giving the problem people a mas inwhich to hide.The police did what they had to and are to be commended highly.

Melanie Terrace,BC
said

I love what Sam C had to say.That is exactly the truth.Even if you went to protest in a peaceful manner,once the Black Bloc joined in your group march,and you did not distance yourself from them,you became complicit.You essentially condoned their behaviour when you failed to denounce it.Just like some states who charge you with "felony murder" even though you did not pukllk the trigger.If someone dies while you are part of a group cimitting a crime,yu are just as guilty as the person who pulled the trigger.In this case,the same should happen here. I've done my share of marching and protesting in Vancouver.But,when violence became a certainly,I left the scene.The fact was,our meaasge would not be heard,and we would all be tarred as "terrorists". Yes,we gave up our right to be heard on that very day.But realize that defending a principle,in this case the right to peaceful protest,you some times have to sacrifice something.We were happy to give wait for another day to be heard in an effort to give all people the right to law and order.Our message could be delivered on another day,in a civilized manner.That sacrifice seemed small,relative the the harm done by rioting morons. Don't blame your police.The Canadian way is to defend the criminals and punish the victims of crime.There is no defense for trashing a city or the neighbourhoods of it's citizens.The only way to protect the general public,is to lower the boom on those who cause these riots.All cities in our country should be sufficiently protected to ensure they can deal with any event.Not holding these events is a surrender to the criminals and thugs.

alex
said

Think about Blair's statement ..." We have arrested many of the anarchist leaders"What's this ? Anarchists have leaders now ?Could it be any clearer that the Blac Bloc are agent provocateurs ?

Bob in Winnipeg
said

Good work the police did the right thing by their pre-emptive strikes. They gave the others plenty of time to disperse and when they didn't they were caught up with the trouble makes, should have listened in the first place . As for those charged, it is time to make examples out of them , anyone charged with weapons or vandalism should be charged as domestic terrorists and placed on the no flight list and monitored at the boarders. Maybe only when there are real consequences for their action they will think twice about whose property they destroy. You want to show your displease with capitalism then bring your own stuff down and destroy it.

Havelock Heavy
said

I think that the police did a commendable job under very trying circumstances. My hats off to them. The real issue remains as to the wisdom of choosing downtown Toronto and the Convention Centre as the location for the G20 meeting. Hopefully this will be a lesson learned for future meetings of this type and scale.

James
said

How do you people not get it? The cops stood by and did nothing, I haven't heard of one single rioter being arrested. They then proceeded to arrest and detain, en masse, peaceful protestors who had done nothing wrong and stamp out legitimate protest. What did a billion dollars buy us? Massive human rights violations, violations of the letter and spirit of Canadian law, and a lot of damaged property (which the cops apparently didn't care about). Now McGuinty's on the news today lying about the "secret law" (never happened, he said. Then he said, well OK it happened but no one was arrested under the new law.) Really??? Are you all that dense? You can't see what's happened and happening here? You deserve what you get.

Corey
said

Toronto Police: You were holding weapons. I was holding flowers. You proceeded to billy club me while my back was turned - for what, I still don't know. I have photos to prove it. WHO IS THE TERRORIST??

Rob
said

For those who keep parising the Police, and blaming the Black Bloc, here is a question for you. I agree that what the members of Black Bloc did was wrong, however.. Did you ever stop to consider that, the reason nobody was seriously injured is because 99% of people were protesting peacefully, regardless of what Police will tell media in an attempt to justify their actions. Why, in all the images of people being arrested, do we not see any of the Black Bloc? Instead we see media members and peaceful protesters under arrest. You are telling me the Police are justified in arresting visible members of the Media?? The Police are using that as an excuse... I defy anyone to answer this with an INTELLIGENT response as to why members of the media were arrested while wearing huge yellow media tags, and we have never seen video of any Black Bloc member under arrest. please answer that!!

Ticked off and tired of it
said

The police should be praised for their restraint to a point. These black bloc terrorist should have been shot on site. You come to town with the sole purpose of creating havoc, you become a legitimate target.

ed peters
said

These complaints are being led by the Canadian Civil Liberties Assoc. It never fails to amaze me how every time there is a large police action this group always files complaints. Each time the media is sucked in , maybe because they have too much news time to fill. Officers know going in that whatever they do, act or don't act the CCLA or to a greater extent the BCCLA is going to file complaints. That is there reason for existence and what they get paid for - filing complaints-. More foolishness that constantly happens only in Canada.

matara
said

What a bunch of bunk! The public is being suppressed from their rights of freedom of speech. If we could rightfully access the Politicians to question them on their agendas and continuous waste of tax payers dollars there may not be so many riots! What do you expect when you live in a dictatorship Country? When do the Politicians have to answer to the tax payers and voters. Free Country my A**!!!!!!

Harry in Toronto
said

Given that the police outnumbered the peaceful protesters 2:1, and outnumbered the "terrorists" 100:1 - you'd think they could have done a better job. Maybe the police SHOULD be held accountable for their actions...

David L
said

It is shocking that anyone can complain about a police force which did its utmost to protect our city in an incredible situation created by these Black Bloc thugs. They were indeed aided innocently or otherwise by stupid people taking photos and taunting the peace kepers, refusing to move out of harms way. "Whose street, our street" , not quite. It is the city's street and the police are responsible to keep it safe. Who should have a 'right' to wander all over the city streets causing trouble. That isn't democracy that is chaos.Try it in China or Iran.

Toby
said

Yes the so called "Black Bloc" are terrorists and their behavior was totally unacceptable.

I have no issue with the front line officers as they were obeying orders, however, I do have an issue the way command planned and proceeded.

An independant reveiw must take place to investigate what occured on Queen St. I doubt we will ever get the answers. It is looking more and more like Queen Street was abandoned on purpose in order to set a stage for this destruction to take place.

Chris
said

Why are people referring to these criminals as Black Bloc... There is no group or organisation that calls themselves the "Black Bloc". The term is used to described a tactic used by many groups of protestors to conceal their identity and to form a unified front. It's a terror-tactic, and in my opinion, our laws should be changed so that the use of such tactics becomes an arrestable offense. If you dress up in black and cover your face at a protest, that should be enough to get you arrested, searched and fined. I have no problem with the act of public protest, but if you feel that strongly about an issue, you shouldn't be afraid to put your name and face behind it.

Mirko R. Quebec
said

I think the police should be thank, they showed restraint in a very tense situation, where they clearly out numbered! They kept calm, and did not abuse anyone, yes being firm is a must in that situation, but they do not have the time to cuddle peoples feelings, Safety for themselves and the public is and should always be their priority!!!

Jeff Langille
said

Restraint? You have got to be kidding me! Maybe you dont believe in the right to protest, but the majority of Canadians do. Thousands of people protested peacefully in Toronto, and the majority of those arrested were not breaking windows and burning cars. Wake up people, stop being delusional, and realize that we are one block away from "friendly" fascism. We only have rights when the government wants us too, and they can take them away whenever they want, We faught against this sort of tyranny once already and the public has fully demonstrated that it is ready to do so once again. Liberty dies when good poeple stand by and watch peoples rights get trampled, even if a few anarchists cause some damage.

Andrew
said

As far as I can tell there were two Black Bloc, the protesters who wore Black and concel their faces, and the police who wore black and concel their faces. One group opposes the new world order and globalization and uses sticks and stones, the other group supports the new world order, globalization,and fascist police states, and uses tear gas, guns, and riot gear. Who do you think the real terrorists are?

LA in Oshawa
said

I would love to see all you folks that are critising the police stand down the crowd of idiots that was out and about on the weekend.
I for one do not blame the police for any of it at all. I think they put themselves in harms way enough everyday to have to put up with the likes of those cowards dressed in black. If the protestors truly believed in what they are protesting, why hide your faces???? These people knew when they got up in the morning exactly what they were going to do. Why not bash the people that were in the vicinity of these jerks when all hell broke loose. Instead of standing there with your cell phone out and taking photos, why didn't any of them try and stop it. What's that? there were too many of them? Tell you what, I found out in short order that I would make a lousy cop. Me, I would just shoot them where they stood. POlice brutality my butt. If you were stupid enough to be there on Sunday, then you deserved what you got, and complaining about the detention center? Are you people for real, it's JAIL, not a hotel room!

Brian
said

First off job well done by the police.And to all the protester's gimmie me a break Toronto looked like a bunch of hooligans to the rest of canada and the worldAlot of us out west were ashamed by what went on there to protest in peace is one thing but what happened out there was a shame .They should make the protesters pay for all damage incured peroid.

Plabo
said

Just the fact that the inquiry is named SMAART means that the results will be in favor of the police because I doubt very much they will classidy protesters as smart. Where exactly did the money on security go? It sure wasn't for Toronto or the people. The Auditor General should definitely audit these costs because I am sure there are many companies and contractors paid with little or no work.

Jeff
said

To those supporting the police, I must ask a few questions. First of all, could the reason that no protestors or police were harmed be because virtually everyone at these protests was peaceful (not instigating or resisting violence with the police)? Next, how come although we have seen the same pictures of black bloc protestors wrecking Toronto a million times, how come over the whole weekend I have not seen ONE picture of someone dressed in black being arrested?
And now we have internal investigations of the police by the police. Take this analogy: If you suspected your son (the police) was bullying children at school because the school (official organizations like Amnesty International) as well as parents of other children (the thousands of people who have voiced concern over police actions by taking to the streets or the media), would you simply ask your son if he was a bully and be satisfied when he smugly replies "no"?

Frankie Page
said

this video pretends to be something it is NOT!!! I didn't what to see the lies and excuses of the police department. Anyone notice that they just kept showing the same video footage of the black bloc over and over again. Oh and the weapons- a couple gas masks---scary!

Rob
said

@ PB_Toronto who said: "If you were an innocent bystander it was you obligation to get out of the fray."Get a life!!!! This is our country! Not a police state, and not a communist state. It is our right to stand on the sidewalks and protest. To tell people to go home is criminal. If you think that people should simply get out of the way because the Police tell them to, then you are weak minded. Stand up for your rights, even when you are told you have none.

Liz K
said

I believe Canada has the best police forces in the world. I support how they handled the situation - I thank God no officers were killed or innocent citizens. It is ironic how the focus of criticism is on those that put their lives on the line for us everyday and ... not on the destruction loving criminals... these hoodlum actually looked like they were having fun...!!

Rob
said

To all of you praising the police force, consider this:1) The police arrested innocent protesters, who were not engaging in any criminal activity -> RIGHTS VIOLATION2) The Police knowingly arrested visible members of the media!!! -> RIGHTS VIOLATION3) The police forceably told people to go home -> RIGHTS VIOLATION4) The police used excessive force causing injury to unarmed, peaceful protesters -> RIGHTS VIOLATION5) Instead of arresting and concentrating their efforts on a few bad apples, they arrested anyone indiscriminately -> RIGHTS VIOLATIONThese laws are here to protect people. To keep government honest, and keep it a government FOR the people. Nobody, including Toronto's mayor wanted the summits held in downtown Toronto, but Harper runs a government for himself and his people, not Canadians, and so he did whatever he wanted as usual. So what did people do? The only thing they can legally do, protest. People's right to protest and voice their opinions was trampled on by militant police officers, who looked like they were running a communist state.This was a complete travesty of justice by the Toronto Police Force and our own Government. There should be an independent investigation, with charges laid against police who assaulted innocent people and denied them their freedom.

SE Toronto
said

@C - I was there - on Saturday - when the police were dealing with unruly protesters and the Bloc headed off to streets with less police presence (where I happened to be passing through so that I could avoid the demonstrations). I was also there on Friday when the first protest kicked off in Allen Gardens, and those representing the Bloc were huddled in the crowd of peaceful protesters, and where nobody questioned their black masks and the fact that they were ordering the press and curious onlookers not to take photos - as though they were some sort of gestapo.

I wasn't at Spadina and Queen, but I watched on live television on Sunday night as the police (naturally reacting to the events of the day before) warned the crowd three times to disperse - and then detained those who refused. Public safety trumps your right to protest (and I say this with total respect to your right to protest). Sorry to anyone who had to stand in the pouring rain for three hours - but as someone who lives in the downtown core, I'm with the police on this one.

Joe Szentirmay
said

I think the only solution to discourage these so called protesters/lowlifes/losers/socialists/feminists/welfare bums is a good solid thumping.I only wish I was a riot policeman last weekend.

Stef
said

Who cares, comment all you like sitting comfortably at home. Rioters, "terrorists", peaceful demonstrators, doesn't matter. Nothing will change, only more useless and wasteful actions from world leaders as usual. Here's a thought, is the G20 more important than the oil spill in the gulf down south? I would say so, take those billion dollars and throw it at that problem, it concerns all living beings on this planet!

Sekaru
said

You all seem to be ready to jump on the police forces side, but theres a really important question I guarantee most of you have not even bothered to ask. Why are these protesters so willing to sacrifice there lives for this.. what are they trying to protest. Regardless of how it all went down this is the most important question to ask. Find the answer to that and you'll understand why this happened.

Doug Rutherford
said

What sort of wingnut thinks protest is illegal? And what sort of fascist thinks that curtailing the rights of peaceful protesters is in any way legitimate?

RLK
said

Just curious. What exactly were all you 'protestors' expecting when you were arrested and put into the temporary detention centre? Were you expecting the Ritz Carlton or the Taj Mahal? Give me a break! Jail isn't suppose to be cushy. And for you 'innocent bystanders', perhaps you should have stayed at home and watched everything on tv, like the rest of us did! You got EXACTLY what you deserved. Kudos to ALL the police for a job well done.

Zhimmy
said

Our Police are living proof that the traditions of the North West Mounted Police carry on to this day. I like to watch COPs but I happier that its not in my country!

Rich
said

A spanking is in order. Take those upper-middle class spoiled rotten kids in masks and dressed in black and put em over the knee.They protest nothing! They just want their 15 minutes of fame with the taxpayer footing the bill.They are like those who wear Che Guevera tshirts without understanding that he was a mass murderer. It's the flavour of the month.god.. I wish these children would grow up.

Hero
said

I think there should have been civilians in the crowd detaining these idiots in the crowd and treating them proper so the police don't have to take the fall for this. Canadians are clearly on the side of the police. These Black Bloc should be hunted down and made to serve time and make reparations. The G20 meetings should not be held in cities or in pre-announced locations.

happy
said

How do we know who is under all those black face masks? Could there have been any police provoking the protesters? Why were the police cars positioned where protesters could easily access them? Were they used as bait? Why did the police stand by and allow the protesters to run wild on Saturday? Was it to justify the billion dollar price tag, to destroy liberal Toronto, or to justify the police action on Sunday? Any answers? Why didn't Harper use the CNE grounds as Miller suggested?

Jake in Florida
said

Wow, the activists in Toronto have truly cast shame on Canada's peaceful reputation!

Saeed Soltanpour
said

I could not make to the press
my question is if a bunch of " thug" with a few basic weapon could cripple the police system and the city of Toronto while millions of dollar spending on the police budget and intelligence , then is the city safe before any organized sophisticated , terrorist group ,
2- the police tactic from the beginning was not the same as previous protest in the city. this year police tactic was heavy presentation and scaring tactics which lead to a confrontation .
police could do much better job which they failed and as a result if Mr. Blair steps down would be for the integrity of Toronto and the police , too
Best

Ethnic Canadian Journalist

Linda in Vancouver
said

Now all you socialists know why security at events like this costs so much.I m sorry for the law abiding taxpayers of Toronto.They did not get their moneys worth.Hopefully an investigation will help find out why.But seriously,blaming the cop on the street,not a wise or just position to take.As bad as this was,it could easily have turned a lot more ugly.Street weapons,gas masks and facial coverings should have been a clue. You think PM Harper is a dictator? Really? I think it is the left wing activists that are now the dictators.They are the ones who refuse to denounce the destruction.They are the ones who organize these riots.And they are the ones who will eventually deprive peaceful protestors of their chance to be heard.Why? Because "John Q Public" is sick to death of paying to clean up after them.And guess what?No matter whether it's the feds,the province,or Torontonians,it is still the hard working taxpayer who gets all the bills.The only thing at issue,is which taxpayers,and how much. If governments and courts will not give the police the power to act,then it may be time for the general public to do it for them.All of those involved,and all the leaders of these groups should be publicy unmasked,paraded through city centre,and be required to explain their actions.For public safety,we cannot tolerate this behaviour any longer.Enough of this "hug a thug" approach to justice.The public CAN help by refusing th help ANY of the organizations who took part when they come begging for money or your vote.Cut them off by marginalizing their organizations,denouncing their leaders,and publicizing their complicity in these crimes against the citizens of Toronto.THAT is accountability.

Murja
said

This is just proof that throwing money at a problem is not the best answer. That a group of anarchists, unorganized by definition, could cause such damage whilst police arrested innocent bystanders... It's a real blow to ones national pride.

Dave Edmonton
said

I don't think a review is necessary. Some protesters went there with the intent of looking and causing trouble and if you didn't obey the or listen to what the police said, then you got what you deserve. Police Officers got hurt as well, so should there be inquiry into the protesters actions? I bet you won't even hear of it. Well done to the Police Officers who had to put up with the nonsense. You all did a remarkable job. No need to investigate the Officers actions.

bettie
said

the media is also guilty for what transpired. CTV showed very little of the summit itself... just hour after hour of what was going on in the streets. You aided and abetted the criminals.

D Root
said

Some of you complaining about the "death of democracy" and having your "Charter Rights" denied may need to re-read the Charter:1. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees the rights and freedoms set out in it subject only to such reasonable limits prescribed by law as can be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society.Note the caveat "...only to such reasonable limits...".

Doug
said

After reading some anti police comments, it is obvious that the thugs an protestors failed miserably and accomplished nothing.Now they are ticked off.Thats good news indeed!

KJ in Kingston Ontario
said

Why don't we pour a few hundred million more down the drain and hold a public inquiry -- after all the lawyers will all be short of pay after the HST comes into effect in Ontario and folks won't be able to afford to do up a will, settle an estate or buy a home... They will need a government gravy train with a few $200 / hour clients like all the "stakeholders" in this fiasco.

Doug
said

We don't need a review into police actions. The police did an amazing job.What we need is a review into why there were so many thugs and why so many young people had nothing better to do with their time than pretend to protest so they could be part of a media event.

Jordan Nowlan
said

People who have been interviewed on ctv news, like that woman who was arrested and talked about only getting cheese and butter sandwiches in the detention center and only one toilet for like three people need realise, they where arrested, it is simple, it is a fact that jail removes your rigths, when you break the law you get what you deserve. If people like that dont want to go jail, get back when the Police tell you to do so, if not, you are just asking to be arrested or hit with a baton, rubber bullet or pepper spray. I strongly appreciate the Police officers who where at the summit, because they did a great job in protecting the VIP's and enforcing the law. I strongly believe they should all receive medals for dealing with the protesters in a appropriate manner and the protesters got exactly what they deserve. The Police acted profesionally under the sucumstances and once again they did a great job. Thank you to all Law Enforcement at summit.

Dave
said

Sherine wrote: "I think Canadians should be thankful that we live in a country where we can demonstrate like this."That's the point -- because of a secret law and police over-stepping their authority, we WERE NOT allowed to demonstrate. Chief Blair just called anyone attending the protest (even if they were peaceful) part of a "criminal conspiracy." So, I don't see how you can say that we can protest as Canadians. That right was completely taken away from us, and you, and all Canadians.

Dean in Abby
said

@Barry, No we are not in a police state but the way some people like to protest is pushing us closer to it. There is no need for people to vandalize property that isn't their own just because they feel like it. My only thing is that the police were far too restrained with these idiots. No one minds a peaceful protest but this is way out of hand.

Alan
said

As I watched on TV the Monday protest, in front of Police HQ, I wondered if/when these whiners need help and call 911, will they remember their comments and lack of respect for the Police and other essential services. Will they waste time "discussing" their civil rights before possibly even having their life saved by one of Toronto's finest?
From Chief Blair's presser, the Sunday Group were the same Group from Friday that pictures show "included" many of the Black Bloc thugs. Tough to explain that away as "innocent".
And to those who complained about the accomodations at the Detention Centre - what did you expect, a Royal York suite?
Let's get on with living - go to the Jazz Festival, the Pride Parade, Canada Day festivities, so many great things to do in our city - enjoy them.
Well done Chief, and to your full team too! THANK YOU

EDM VIC
said

I say thank you to all thye police forces that were involved in the security of the world leaders and also the people of Toronto. Now here is how i feel, if you go to a protest with your face covered and dressed all in black then you are not a protester you are now a terrorist! I feel that those that decided to become terrorist should have there pictures posted and they should be put on the no fly list so that they can never again enter any country (other than there own) to protest anything again! They should also be charged with the cleanup and the damage that happened to Toronto! To those that feel they were done wrong, you were warned that if you involved yourselves in this protest that you could be charged so i feel no pain for you what so ever. Finally to those that say the cost is outrages, here in Alberta we had (not 2 but just 1 summit) the g8 and it cost the government of the day $375 million!

Earthwatcher
said

From what I could see through the eyes of the media, police did a remarkable job of dealing with the anarchists. I would even use the word "restraint" for the most part because it would have been easy for them to just simply wade in there with the riot batons, tear gas and rubber bullets to start arresting en masse. Instead, they did reasonable job of trying to isolate the violent idiots whose only agenda was to destroy property and create chaos. When it is all said and done, the police probably arrested more peaceful demonstrators than they should have. The conditions they were detained in and the length of time they spent in detention were probably not appropriate.I ask you then...would you have them react in a more passive manner and let the anarchists and vandals completely destroy the businesses and property in the area? Get over the fact it was held in metro Toronto, quit complaining about the cost and venue, that is in the past. Focus on what was done right, what could be done better and perhaps the next summit site will be reconsidered because of the conclusions.I personally believe these summits and their cost is rapidly out-weighing their usefulness. International diplomacy and economic decision making can surely be done by teleconference. Judging from the comments I have been reading over the past week, a lot of Canadians feel the same way and I would wager most European tax payers would too given their economic issues.

Elias Nasrallah
said

There is no need for a revue. The police did what they were supposed to do. If it were not for the hoolagins and troublemakers, they police would not have been rough on the cry babies.....The anarchists caused trouble and they paid the price because they got caught. They are also angry that they did get caught so they make up lies and make up stories just to try and make the police look bad. Let's face it folks: The cops did their jobs and the trouble makers were arrested and the trouble makers are upset because they were arrested. If they can't take it, get lost!!

manner
said

Make no apologies. The police did what they had to do. To many armchair quarterbacks piping in now. Time to let the courts deal with the charges. It is so easy to hide behind PEACEFUL protest, but really when the police asked you to move and you failed to do so. Tough luck, and get lost.

Albertaboy111
said

I love the unwritten policy we have here that everyone in power doesn't have to be accountable to themselves. They always seem to get to review themselves, and then come out that nothing was done wrong. Wish I could do something wrong, and then get to investigate myself about it...

PB_Toronto
said

@C"I walked by a group anarchists, dressed in black, faces covered, a HUGE flag announcing who they were. They were standing on the sidewalk at Queen and Spadina PRIOR to the vandalism. The police ignored them,..."So, from what I gather from your statement the charter only protects people like you? You suggest the police should have 'done something" to these individuals PRIOR to the vandalism because they looked the part. Frankly I agree with you on that aspect but maybe you should review the legislation you and your 'mob' are so adamant in championing.

MAL of TO
said

And here we go again... our beloved 'Chief of Apologizing to the Bad Guys' will examine this, kiss the services boards feet and then publicly apologize for treating hooligans poorly. And just think, he got a 5 year extension recently.

PB_Toronto
said

This is so completely old. Although I have no problem with a review, all these comments regarding brutality and rights and being targeted are complete nonsense. Also, what the police coulda, woulda, shoulda is also tiresome. Thugs ravaged downtown TO. I dont care how much money you spend you cant plan or prevent that. Even if by some miracle they could have, Im sure other nut jobs would have cried foul as they had doen nothing wrong. Police did what they had to do. If you were an innocent bystander it was you obligation to get out of the fray. At that point the police cant pick and choose. You cant antagonise the police when things have got out of control and claim you were one of the peaceful ones. I watched the videos like most and what disrurbed me were the so called peaceful protestors pushing the limits by not clearing the way to later stomp their feet and claim the police were brutal. If you truly were 'peaceful' you should have left the first sign of trouble brought about by these so called champions of rights and freedoms. What a joke you people are. If this si the chaos the charter is defending, its time the charter was reviewed and you should look for a new cuase. I think the majority of Canadian would disagree this is a good example of freedom of speach and ones right in 'peaceful assembly'.

JUDY
said

The Toronto Police Service and their fellow law enforcement officers have nothing to apologize for. No civilian could possibly understand what it must have been like to stare down a crowd of thousands strong not knowing when someone is going to incite a riot. With little time to prepare for somthing of this magnitude, I applaud each and every officer, firefighter, EMS worker and the military for their dedication and service. Thank you.

Chris
said

What is there to review??? They did it RIGHT!!! I'll say it again: Controlling mobs is like controlling a forest fire. You dig your fireguard (cordon the crowd). Let the fire burn out (crowd calms down). Move in to put out the hotspots (arrest the hooligans). What more has to be explained to you people!?!?

CS
said

There also needs to be a public inquiry into the allegations of human rights abuses. THIS IS NOT ENOUGH!

Dave
said

An internal review, for police enforcement purposes, just won't do. There are very serious questions that need to be answered. For example, what made the police chief and premier of Ontario think they had the authority to trash the Charter and take our rights way? Why has Bill Blair, who I've respected greatly up until now, out-and-out lied about so many aspects of what happened, from saying the secret law was NOT secret (c'mon, a 4-year-old can see it was secret), to the 'dangerousness' of the crowd at Queen and Spadina on Sunday (definitely not dangerous, unless the police were scared of little girls suddenly), and especially, why they did absolutely nothing to stop the damage on Saturday from taking place (it seemed like the police were giving favour to the Black Bloc by not arresting them!). Chief Blair seems to think everything went well, but he is dead wrong. It was a failure of the highest magnitude, and someone has to take responsibility for it.

bits
said

Everyone should be walking up to a police officer and saying "thank you"!

C
said

Obviously most of you were not here on the streets of Toronto. I was here. I was one of the peaceful protesters marching. I walked by a group anarchists, dressed in black, faces covered, a HUGE flag announcing who they were. They were standing on the sidewalk at Queen and Spadina PRIOR to the vandalism. The police ignored them, and chose to threaten the peaceful marchers with tear gas. As they were attacking us....the Black Bloc went off to the abandoned police cars. Interesting addition to this, 99% of all the police were moved about in the city in unmarked vans, buses and rental vans in addition to the bicycle police. I saw very few actual police cars, except those which were set afire. We were told to go to Queens Park after the march. We did. Only to have riot police storm us. Not once did they tell us to move or to vacate. Unless of course the rubber bullets shot at us, as they were beating people is their "vocal announcement". We continuously asked where we could peacefully assemble. We were not worthy of being spoken to. To those who say its not excessive, why are people being stopped on streetcars yesterday. The streetcars are stopped and police come on demanding people's ID. "Papers Please". My right to peaceful assembly is a right I will never stop fighting for. Even at the protest last night they were grabbing peaceful protesters and jumping on them. Two people got "arrested" while buying gum during the protest. This July 1 I wear a black arm band for the death of democracy.

Martin of NS
said

I'm surprised that with all the damage caused by thugs that there was no one critically injured or murdered! I think for the high-stress situation the police did really well. I just think it sucks that people can't protest peacefully without having a fringe group ruin it for everybody.

Kaptin
said

Good old Ted up there as the first to comment. I had teh same idea ages ago. Each country involved in teh G20 and G8 all contribute to building and Citadel or resort or whatever you want to call it in the Arctic, or Baffin Island is good to. Helicopter access only. They get flown in and out by the security forces as selected by each country.

If the protesters wanna protest, let them.

I still don't knwo what all these proptesters were protesting though? Had they not casused so much fuss requiring a billion in security, just think how well that money could have been used for other things.

I jus' shake me heed at all this nonsense protesting ... grow up people. Think of the costs that you yourselves created.

Sam C
said

Just because you claim to be a "peaceful protester" doesn't give you a free pass. If you are holding your upraised fist and shouting "PEACEFUL PROTEST," or if you are caught up in a mob that includes people throwing bricks and bottles at the Police, then you should expect to have you civil liberties curtailed. The Charter of Rights and Freedoms allows this -- section 1.

MikefromHalifax
said

It would be nice if the media had an organization that would look into the actions of it's reporters and broadcasting personnel. We need to clamp down on the reporters who constantly put their own slant on stories to either sensationalize or push a political view rather than report the news that is actually happening. I have never seen reporter bias in my life as what happened Saturday and Sunday when CBC and CTV were virtually ignoring the actions of the protesters in favour of waiting for the police officers to do something that they could call "abusive or overly authoritative. Report the news and stop making it up.

Erik
said

Black Bloc is not an organization or a specific group, it's a tactic used to conceal their identity and appear as one large mass.I too praise the police, they had an impossible task and used only as much force as required.

Rob
said

What a CROC!!!! Here we have tyhe Police cheif saying "WE DID OUR BEST", while they arrest innocent bystanders, peaceful protesters and even Media members without any cause. CTV News Producer, as well as some camera men, independent reporters, all wearing huge visible media tags were arrested and held for HOURS!!!! That is their best!?!?!?!?!? I would be too embarrased to tell people that was the best job I could do, if it was me. People have the right to protest peacefully, and the Police completely abused their power and denied people the right to a peaceful protest.

BB
said

norm clearly you have ABSOLUTELY no idea what you are talking about and were not there to see what went on first hand.

Daniel - A concerned Canadian!
said

This review should be conducted by an un-biased ouside legal firm. Of course the police will praise themselves, but all of us Canadians know truely how badly they failed. They failed on many (if not all) levels of security for this event. First, take note that I am a right wing strong conservative Canadian, and if I am complaining about tactics used, then they must have been wrong! I personally believe that all the police officers involved in the Sunday events should be re-asigned or re-evaluated for their continued fitness for duty. If they want to act like soldiers then they should be re-assigned to Afghanistan where they belong. Civil liberties were definitely left by the way-side by these power hungry "Force Officers" their heavy handed approach was the catalyst in the violence that was seen in Toronto, they were the instigators, where they should have been the responders. The one time they were needed to respond (Satudary near the Eaton's Centre) they were no where to be found, a huge failure, yet the next day they hijack mostely peaceful protestors and by-standers in an even greater failure. I think that any police officer that injured people (and many were injured) should have to be put on trial to answer for their mis-deeds. I understand that the crowd may have been volitile and such, but the actions of the "Force Officers" ignited the crowed and started the violence, it wasn't the other way around. After seeing these "Force Officers" in action, I'm beginning to think that the message of these anarchists has been heard loud and clear (thanks to the improper reactions of the Force Officers). Your job was to keep Toronto safe...you failed!

Proud of our Police
said

Review away but quite frankly, I think the police did a remarkable job. I dont give a hoot about the whiners, you dont show respect you dont get any. I was listening to some moron talking about a Police State, if that was the case they wouldnt be talking, we wouldnt see their asses for dust! As for those detained, tough!

MAZ in AB
said

Of course there should be a review of the operations to see where improvements can be made. We've had the Olympics and now the Summit and both went well with regard to the ISU and security.

Kate
said

When I read the G20 lead story on your homepage today, it alarmed me when I came to the sentence about the police having to deal with the black bloc tactics. Please go online and search for one photographers shots and his statement about time codes in his photography, They show police officers exiting a police car un screwing their gas tank cap and leaving the car unattended.

Thanks, if you cant find it lemme know and I'll get on there.

Alyx Crawford
said

A good example of why the Police had to do what they did is summed up by the whining of the protest group from Quebec: "We respect a diversity of tactics. People are angry, particularly in the context of an event like that," said Mathieu Francoeur, another CLAC member. "For us it's vandalism against certain institutions . . . it's symbolic and doesn't compare with violence in general in society." And these people are complaining that they were "targeted" by the Police, they believe simply because they are from Quebec. WRONG -- it's because you are criminals!

5th Generation Canadian
said

I have a great deal of respect for Chief Blair and, on the most part, his police force.However, it is obvious that something went very wrong during the Summit; particularly on the final day/night when our rights as citizens were severely trampled. Chief Blair has, historically, proven to be fair and balanced. Don't let us down, Chief. This is far too important an issue to be torpedoed by partisanship of any sort.

David J
said

What is the biggest complaint -- that the Detention Centre was cold, dirty, and uncomfortable? How many protesters were injured? The Police showed AMAZING restraint, and dealt with the chaotic situation in a very professional manner. Unfortunately a number of otherwise innocent people got caught up in the action -- whether through their own curiosity, or from being in the wrong place -- but overall things were handled very well.

Andrea
said

Two things I keep hearing over and over.1) Why were hardly any of the black block arrested? They did the damage.The peaceful protesters just happened to be surrounded by these idiots while they were marching.The only place that was not affected was Huntsville.Maybe the G20 was held in a bad location afterall.2) Who is going to pay for the damages?

Ajay Vee
said

While praising his officers' restraint and professionalism, Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair also promised a review into every aspect of the way police conducted themselves during the G20 summit.Sounds like the fix is in.

J. S.
said

Obviously something went terribly wrong. Saturday as we all watched as a group of thugs took control of streets in Toronto. We watched as police cars were torched and trashed. We all saw the mindless trashing of businesses, and the disgusting intimidation of the population. Throughout all this the police did absolutely nothing, as they just watched! The one billion dollars for security certainly did not help the city of Toronto. This had to be an absolutely terrifying nightmare for all the innocent people that were caught up in this, as well as all the people that live in the areas where these disgusting acts were committed. Too bad Prime Minister Harper had not warned in advance that the money payed for security was only for his exclusive club of G8 and G20 members. He now has the nerve to declare this obscene amount of wasted tax dollars as money well spent. No one who witnessed the city of Toronto that Saturday being thrown to the wolves would agree with him. Sunday the police once again failed the city of Toronto, as it became more and more apparent as the day progressed that they really didn't care who they attacked, rounded up or arrested. Saturday hardened criminals were allowed to lay siege to the city and got away with those crimes. Sunday many innocents payed for the crimes of the guilty, and the police lack of professionalism.

simon
said

The Police, an Instrument of Government, were put in a very difficult situation. They were asked to protect the Red Zone while at the same time protecting the general public. They were put in a very difficult position because the choice of venue was wrong, dead wrong. The priority for the Government was to protect the G20 delegates. During the course of their duties, the Police were forced to make instantaneous decisions and as the delegates were a higher priority perhaps and only perhaps they may have infringed on civil liberties. If there is to be any blame, please keep the police out of it. They are only the instrument of Government.

Prof. Pye Chartt
said

The article implies that the "review team" (SMAART) will be comprised only of inside members; in other words, the public will have no official standing. If true, you just know that all the wacky conspiracy theorists and nutty lefties sporting an axe to grind (with the loving help of the self-interested media) will trash any final report that doesn't fully implicate police in denying people their rights and "abusing" them.

Grayden
said

Anyone 'proud' of police actions is either a sadist or has not read any of the many many accounts of conditions at the detention centres. Police in Toronto used the Miami Model, allowing minimal property damage and baiting the black bloc with conveniently abandoned cruisers when they could have easily arrested these individuals, and then cracking down in full force on journalists and peaceful protesters for the rest of the weekend. These latter were assaulted, harassed, kept in overcrowded cages with little food or water, and in many cases denied legal counsel, and even medical aid where needed. If you think they showed restraint, you need a reality check. Watching the same car burn 50 times in a row on the news doesn't make a 'riot,' and it doesn't justify curtailing our right to assemble and our right to protest. Anyone congratulating the police actions should be deeply ashamed.

Sherine - Ajax
said

The police did their job. A very difficult one in these circumstances. I am sure alot of them have never faced down a mob before. We need to thank them for doing a fantastic job. I think Canadians should be thankful that we live in a country where we can demonstrate like this. Other places are not so fortunate...those people claiming police brutality have absolutely no idea what it really means.
I hope some of the officers read our comments and know that the citizens of Toronto and Canada appreciated their hard work

Barry Einhorn
said

The police promse a review of their actions. Who's kidding who.
The police actions need to be reviewed by an independant body. These tatics were not acceptable.
We are not in a police state.

Samual
said

The police stood back & watched the destruction on the first day, the second day they arrested innocent legal protesters. The security seemed to be very unorganized, the police should be paying the damages, they're the one hired to prevent violence.

Bill in BC
said

I would like to see the criminals tried in a court of law and locked away for a long time. And made financially responsible for the damages. Pity the lawyers will try to shift the blame away from them though.

norm in ontario
said

I, personally, am proud of the restraint the police showed under the circumstances. Sure, there is room for criticism, but also there is room for huge praise. Wherever the black bloc came from should be ashamed of this "so called" organization. I hope the police know who these jerks are and they are dealt the hand they deserve. JMHO.

Anne
said

A post review of an event is a valuable tool for future operations, but I would hope that it will not be a 'what the police did wrong' review. They did their jobs well and as a taxpayer, I thank them. Even without the anarchists dressed in black, a mob of protesters could get out of line in an instant given the right provocation. As for all of the bleating out there from Amnesty International et al, please give it a rest and move on to something else.

Old Ted
said

In planning for the next G8-G20 meeting, take the billion dollars and and build a luxury hotel and runway in the middle of Baffin Island. Terrorists and trouble makers couldn't get there and the place could be used for any and all high level meetings. Let the G8-G20 nations finance it all. Seems simple enough to me.

CB in Ottawa
said

The police should definitely be praised for their restraint. There is always a review of how things are done to better plan for the future. What I would prefer learning about is what is being done to those that incited the violence, the black block, who their leaders are, how the police are trying to get them and if they can be sued by the businesses and city of Toronto based on the damages they did. I would like to see them locked up with the key thrown away. THEY GAVE COMPLETE JUSTIFICATION FOR THE NEED FOR SECURITY, and it is a disgrace to call them Canadian. They looked like idiots and clowns in their attire and should recognize the Canadian people see them that way. When I saw these nuts attacking the legitimate protesters trying to incite a riot. And by the way, why is the media not discussing this group further, saying where exactly they came from etc. That is what Canadians want to know.