A judge in Calgary acquitted one of the protest organizers of violating the province's public health rules.

Brad Kerrigan was charged under the Public Health Act for attending a private meeting on December 20, 2020, outside Calgary City Hall with about 250 people present.

Kerrigan told CTV News that he organized about 50 protests titled "Walk for Freedom" against mask rules, mandates, and restrictions.

Judge Dinkel made the oral ruling on Monday during a two-hour trial period. Kerrigan said, "The decision clearly showed that our marches were not illegal gatherings and that our police should not have been forced to target innocent Albertans and Canadians." He also described it as a "victory for freedom and the constitution."

Kerrigan's lawyer, Hatem Khair, says he argued that the definition of "private social gatherings" does not apply to marches where people were invited to attend.

Khair said, "The protest was never illegal." He adds that acquitting his client would set a precedent for others facing similar charges for participating in protests.

Attorney General Peter McKenzie did not comment on whether there are plans to file an appeal, adding that there is a 30-day period after the judge's decision.