Keep Courtenay Safe

Sentencing of the Trio

2011-04-17T03:29:00.000-07:00

Maximum sentence was 6 months in jail for the trio, but in the end they got:

Rob Rogers - Fined $500 and 8 months probation
Adam Huber - One day in jail and 12 months probation. He must also go into treatment for his alcohol problem.
David White - A conditional 30 day sentence where he will be put on a curfew, community service, AND ordered to undergo psychological counselling. White talked with the media afterwards. See the video from CTV News for his comments below.

Another Similar Story from Across the Country

2011-04-17T02:45:00.000-07:00

February of this year in Nova Scotia, two young brothers (Justin Rehberg and Nathan Rehberg) were the first convinced in Canadian history for burning a cross on the yard of a bi-racial, black family.

The local press in Nova Scotia produced an amazing documentary that shed more light on the story. After watching this, a lot of the same elements mirrored what happened in Courtenay in 2009.

Rural small towns in Canada
The convicted young men suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and growing up in broken homes
Rumors and speculations circulating around town about victim being a drug dealer
Rallies being held after the tragic incidents by the communities
Offenses occurred while the assailants were drunk
And in both cases, the young men could not comprehend the severity and hurt they caused when they committed hated crimes such as burning crosses or hurling racial epithets.

It is interesting to note that, David White too was found burning a cross during a party with all his friends. Giving more evidence that he too was not sensitive to acts of hate like the two young men from Nova Scotia.

1st Day of Sentencing

2010-12-17T01:31:00.000-08:00

Confederate Flag: Association to American History or Active Support for Racism?

During the trial, all three were found guilty of assault. Crown prosecutor Robert Richardson was able to get section 718.2 of the criminal code applied to David White's sentencing. This would allow the court to consider racial prejudice or bias as an aggravation to the assault. Although, I might agree to label it a hate crime should be reserved for more heinous acts and displays of racism, White should receive a heavier sentence for his racist outburst towards a stranger on the street.

Eric Chesterley, White's lawyer, claimed that his client is not a racist. Racist or not, White did say a horrible thing towards Jay Phillips from the back of the pickup truck. It was discovered through court proceedings that White, without provocation, yelled "There's a nigger" within earshot of Phillips, a black man himself. No one should be subject to that kind of racial and verbal abuse. He may not be racist in the true sense as claimed by Eric Chesterley, but we do know he doesn't have respect for black people he if he fragrantly uses the N-word in public like that

I don't think racial jokes, insults, discrimination, and abuse will decrease from the publicity of this case. Jokes will still be said behind people's backs. Minorities will still be distanced and isolated from certain social groups. And people will still be harassed on the street for being a different race in the Comox Valley. But hopefully, we'll learn that if you single someone out based on the colour of their skin and assault them physically or verbally, there will be consequences.

Oblivious to most people of the Comox Valley, a racist subculture that celebrate the history and culture of the American deep south is brewing in the Valley. Everytime you see a confederate flag on a vehicle or piece of clothing, ask yourself what you think that person is celebrating by displaying it? More than likely, they're celebrating and representing the racist redneck subculture prevalent in the Southern United States.

Judge delays sentencing on YouTube case‎
Dec 17th, 2010 - Comox Valley Echo

No decision‎
Dec 16th, 2010 - Comox Valley Record

Crown Presents Facebook Photos

2010-10-07T22:40:00.000-07:00

Crown prosecutor presented pictures taken from Facebook that may suggest that David White revel in and celebrated racist culture. These photos may also suggest that his verbal attack was racially motivated as well.

There was as hearing between all lawyers to determine whether the photo are admissible in court. However, Judge Peter Doherty will determine the evidence's admissibility at a later date.

Read More: Oct 7th, 2010 - Comox Valley Echo - Racism claim heard in court

Trouble in Campbell River for Huber UPDATE

2010-10-05T21:44:00.000-07:00

On September 17th, Adam David Huber made an appearance at the Courtenay Law Courts for "wilfully resisting or obstructing a peace officer" in Campbell River. Not much is known about this incident. As a service to public interest, and possible safety, Huber is listed as "In Custody" on the BC Court Services Online.

Looks like all three parties met for court today but was adjourned to a future date of October 7th where another date will be set.

Also, looks like a Presentence Report (PSR) will be presented Dec 17th, in court.

*UPDATE OCT 7TH, 2010*
It has now been reported that Adam David Huber was at an apartment party in Campbell River on September 17th. As we reported earlier, Huber was out on bail with conditions; some of which included not consuming alcohol or staying out past his curfew of 10pm.

Police arrived to the apartment to investigate a noise complaint. When they arrived and questioned Huber, he provided false information about his identity to 3 different officers which resulted in the 3/5 charges. The other two charges came from Huber breaking his bail conditions of consuming alcohol and staying out past his court order curfew.

This is the 3rd time Huber broke his bail conditions and last two arrests were just within months of being released. During this last bail hearing, Judge Peter Doherty warned Huber, "the first time that you look at a beer ... you're going to jeopardize your freedom. You're going to be back in jail. You know that."

I must stress again, hearing news of this really does pain me. I don't think incarceration will improve Adam's dependence on social drinking and partying. He needs to find the strength inside to challenge himself to stop drinking and partying. He needs to spend more quality time with family. He needs to stop the generational cycle of alcohol dependence. He needs to become that positive role model for his child.

I know his friends know about his situation, and they are just as guilty if they encourage or condone his behaviour.

Read More:

Man in court
October 07, 2010 - Comox Valley Record

Adam Huber was in court Tuesday for five unrelated charges stemming from an incident in Campbell River last month.

According to Campbell River RCMP, the Comox Valley man was arrested in the area on Sept. 17 following noise complaints from an apartment party.

http://www.bclocalnews.com/vancouver_island_north/comoxvalleyrecord/news/104538224.html

Dates Set for Sentencing

2010-08-27T01:55:00.000-07:00

Crown attorney will present additional evidence against David Samuel White on October 5th, 2010.

During the trial, White was found to have initiated the altercation with his unprovoked racial slur at a visible minority last year. That verbal attack spurred a fight that was captured on video and posted on YouTube where it was viewed a couple hundred thousand times.

Sentencing for all three has been set for Dec 16th, 2010.

Court case resumes Oct. 5 - Comox Valley Record

Dates Set in YouTube Case Sentencing - JetFM

2010-08-18T08:43:00.000-07:00

Adam David Huber, is now out bail again. David White will find out Aug 26th, 2010 if he will be charged with the tougher hate crime conviction for uttering the racial slurs before, during, and after the fight.

Man in high-profile assault back out on bail
Comox Valley Echo - August 17th, 2010
Adam David Huber is back out on bail. The 25-year-old man, found guilty of assaulting black man Jay Philips in a three-on-one attack widely viewed on the video-sharing website YouTube, was released on Thursday.

Read More:
http://www2.canada.com/comoxvalleyecho/news/story.html?id=c0055a42-b75c-47ea-8407-b80812d1f20d

Sentencing Delayed

2010-08-12T18:25:00.000-07:00

Trio sentencing delayed
Comox Valley Record - August 12, 2010

"The three men found guilty of assault for attacking Jay Phillips last year will have to wait until December to hear the repercussions of their actions.

Crown attorney Robert Richardson explained in court Thursday sentencing will take place in two parts for David Samuel White, 19, Robert William Rogers and Adam David Huber, both 25, who attacked Phillips last July."

Read more: http://www.bclocalnews.com/vancouver_island_north/comoxvalleyrecord/news/100588604.html

Witness to Camping Cross Burning Downplays Event

2010-08-04T00:24:00.000-07:00

Anonymous said...
I was at that party. I think teenagers nowadays have a different opinion on crosses and what they mean. For a 17 year old, a burning cross is something cool (if stupid to do) and it gets attention. They arent thinking about how racist it is, or how older generations are going to think about it. I am 20. I understand both sides. But I honestly think those guys were just having some stupid, poorly thought out fun.

And as for the "hate crime video" awhile back. There were more reasons for the fight then the public knows about.

That is all.
August 3, 2010 6:01 PM

I don’t agree with those statements. Burning a cross is such an explicit act of racism that there is no other excuse for it. Young people steal garden gnomes and pull donuts in parking lots for attention. Burning a cross is an act of celebrating hate that reinforces racist thinking and attitudes.

Also, I think David White was well aware of the connotations of burning a cross judging from the KKK reference from the image to the right.

Learn More:

David White and Adam Huber Seen with Racist Imagery

What sickens me the most are all the comments on Facebook that commended and praised the young men for this disgusting show of racism. If this is how our young people react to men revelling in racist culture, then I wouldn’t want to be around the Comox Valley in the next 10 years.

I think all this is all due to an explosion of a "racist redneck subculture" that started in the mid 90s. We have always been an urban country community, but I didn't really see gun racks and confederate flags on the back of trucks 'till about 15 years ago. Since then, I've been noticing that teenagers are wearing flannel work jackets and steel toed boots. Which, I find ridiculous since they're only teenagers and shouldn't be working laborious jobs

Lastly, the anonymous commenter hinted that there may have been more to the backstory of the fight that occurred last year. I’ve heard about 3 different rumours about that; I won’t speak of them because those stories were never reported or corroborated with other facts.

Bloggers and Tweeters React to Verdict

2010-07-31T02:44:00.001-07:00

Three Men Guilty in Racially Motivated Attack
Anti-Racist Canada: The ARC Collective - July 30, 2010

Re-Update: Courtenay BC men found guilty of assault
The Crommunist Manifesto - July 29, 2010

Trio Charged With Attack in Courtenay
Beyond Robson - July 29, 2010

3 men in racist YouTube assault found guilty
Stand up to the Hate - July 30, 2010

Guilty Verdict for 3 Attackers

2010-07-29T11:45:00.000-07:00

Date for a Sentencing hearing will be set on August 12th, 2010

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Three Courtenay men guilty of assault is case with racial overtones
Comox Valley Echo, July 29, 2010 12:03 PM
Read more: http://www.timescolonist.com/Three+Courtenay+guilty+assault+case+with+racial+overtones/3337833/story.html#ixzz0v6HIsCXX

YouTube trio found guilty of assaulting lone man in Courtenay
July 29th, 2010 - Comox Valley Record

Read More: http://www.bclocalnews.com/news/99564099.html

Guilty verdict for assailants in B.C. assault caught on YouTube
July 29th, 2010 - The Globe and Mail

Read More: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/british-columbia/guilty-verdict-for-assailants-in-bc-assault-caught-on-youtube/article1656248/

Unearthed Facebook Photos Caught Attention of the CVCJC

2010-07-08T19:37:00.000-07:00

Photos that surfaced on Facebook showed two of the accused with racist imagery, and has now has caught the attention of the Comox Valley Community Justice Centre. Although they say blogging and social media falls outside the way they operate, it's a medium that they need to embrace.

I had some reservations about posting these pictures, but ultimately, I felt these racist attitudes by some of the young people in our community should be brought to light. And that it was in the best interest of the public safety to know that these men socialize and practice racist culture.

If Judge Peter Dorthey does rule that this altercation was racially motivated, I also wanted to show people how practicing these racist behaviors can affect young people later in life.

Learn More:

Blogger alleges racism
July 8th, 2010 - Comox Valley Record

Date Set for Judge Peter Doherty's Verdict

2010-07-08T19:26:00.000-07:00

3 weeks from now on July 29th, Judge Peter Doherty will give his verdict on the altercation that took place just over year ago between a 39 year old black man and 3 young white males.

Some have said the alternation was racially motivated, while the 3 young men said it was not.

Learn More:

Judge’s ruling coming soon
July 8th, 2010 - Comox Valley Record

Adam Huber Sentenced to 60 Days for Breaking Bail Conditions

2010-06-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

Adam Huber was sent to 60 days in jail, less time severed for breaking his bail conditions. As posted before, he was picked up at Lewis Park by police on the evening of June 16th, 2010. It was reported he was caught drinking near the concession stand and smelled of alcohol. Initially he denied those claims, but later, wittiness told police they saw him have "just a couple" at the lake earlier that day.

Adam Huber's Past Convictions

Despite Judge Peter Doherty telling Huber he was already on thin-ice and that if he had "so much as a sip of beer," he would be back in jail, Adam still decided to go out and party that night.

Huber was originally sent to jail for two (2) counts each of impaired driving, one (1) count of driving while prohibited, and (1) count of breaching court orders while at large on assault charges.

In one instance, police witnessed Huber blow through two stops signs. Other witnesses also saw him stumble in and out of his truck. He later left his truck, where police found his wallet and a near empty bottle of whiskey. Adam Huber was arrested a short time later in a nearby dul de sac.

He was released on the promise that he would not consume any alcohol, but two months later police found him leaving Gulliver's Pub after a disturbance. He told police that he "only had half a beer," and that it was "still on the table inside." Huber was arrested again, and released again shortly after.

The last straw for Judge Peter Doherty was when Adam was caught with a drink in the drive-thru at the very same McDonalds that Jay Phillips was assaulted. This time during the bail hearing, Doherty sentenced Adam Huber to 6 months in jail.

At that time, Huber's record already included one (1) conviction for impaired driving and two (2) others for driving without a licence. Doherty told Adam during the bail hearing that day, "Mr. Huber, you obviously have an alcohol problem, looking at your record and the kind of trouble you get in."

I hope this is rock bottom for Adam. I don't say that because I want him to feel misery, but want the best for his future. According to AA's 12 step message, alcoholics can only turn around once they hit rock bottom; this assuming Adam does have an alcohol problem.

Huber sentenced for recent breach
Comox Valley Record - June 29th, 2010

Island man in highly publicized assault jailed for impaired driving
Times Colonist - March 24th, 2010

Defence stand by claim of mutual engagement

2010-06-28T19:48:00.000-07:00

During the closing arguments, lawyers for the three defendants stood by their claim that Jay Philips was an equal participant in the fight. They even went as far as to say that Jay Philips was the one who had the motivation to “pick a fight.”

I don’t think whether or not Jay Phillips picked a fight is important. What I’m mainly concerned about is the, alleged, unprovoked verbal and racist attack that Jay suffered before the fight. The crown prosecutor, Bob Richardson, claimed that Adam Huber assumed Jay Phillips was a drug dealer when he saw Philips taking with a teenaged boy. That was when Phillips claimed the three men all threatened to lynch him and called him “Nigger”.

That right there scares me. You can be minding your own business and then be falsely accused and threatened with a lynching reminiscent of the American Deep South decades ago. This is not what I want to see in our community and should not be tolerated. As seen in pictures on Facebook, these young men like to revel in the culture of the Deep South, including having pictures taken in a room full of racist imagery and burning crosses.

Lawyer for Rob Rogers, Doug Marion, who specializes in criminal defense, closed his submission by saying that Philips could had walked from the fight if he wanted to. However, the YouTube video started with two men advancing as Philips was backing away.

Doug Marion went on to say, “You can see him in the video, he’s backing away but his arms are open and he’s screaming ‘come on!’ and then pointing to his chest. The reality is, that is consent.” I disagree with his comment and find some fallacies with his logic.

It shouldn’t be considered “consent” if you’ve been backing away from 3 advancing men for 43 seconds.

You can’t blame a man for calling action after being verbally assaulted with the word “Nigger” and threated with death by lynching.

Justin Smith took the time to back the truck up into a parking spot across the street. Which means they planned to stay a while when they stopped to confront Jay Philips.

Is Jay the bad guy to wanting to fight back? No, he was just defending himself and his personal safety. Anyone would do the same in his shoes.

In Jay’s defence, Bob Richardson said Jay’s actions were within reason and said that, “at that point [Jay’s] got no choice but to engage these people.” He also added that Jay “was trying to make himself bigger to face the danger that was there.”

Both defense and crown consul tried to distrust each other witness’ testimony. Bob Richardson pointed how

Rob Rodgers originally denied drinking before the incident. He ended up confessing he had, “maybe six beer and couple of shots of tequila. “

Adam Huber denied using the word “Nigger,” but later admitted that it “may had been said” and if it was, it was only to describe Jay as a loser. (Funny: when was it okay to liken someone to being a loser by calling them Nigger? I think Adam needs some racial sensitivity education. In fact, all three men involved should take a racial sensitivity course. I’ve said in the past, I think they should travel world in order to respect other cultures and races)

Jay Philips also reported to have disappeared into his apartment when police arrived and then leaving through a back window. It maybe strange behaviour, but doesn’t explain how it related to how this physical engagement started.

Defence lawyer, Doug Marion also attacked Jay’s credibility by saying his heroin addiction and robbery conviction 10 years ago now leaves everything claimed by Jay untrustworthy.

I find it ironic how, Doug Marion, who is a criminal defence lawyer himself, does not believe in second chances. Don’t believe that old adage “You can’t change a man.” People can and have been rehabilitated from a criminal past, despite what Doug Marion suggest from Jay Philips criminal record.

Another court date is now scheduled for July 8th, 2010

Adam Huber Back In Jail

2010-06-26T13:42:00.000-07:00

Adam David Huber is now confirmed to be back in jail after his arrest last week in Lewis Park on the evening of June 16th; just less than two weeks after he was released on bail. The decision to send him back to jail was made during a bail review regarding his multiple drinking and driving arrests.

Huber, along with David White and Rob Rodgers, will appear in court this Monday, June 28th, for the altercation with Jay Philips. There they will hear closing arguments.

Adam Huber Breach Bail Conditions Again UPDATE

2010-06-17T19:15:00.000-07:00

*Update 18/06/2010* We know now he was allegedly caught drinking in Lewis Park last Wednesday.

Last night Huber breached his bail conditions at Lewis Park. There is no information to what activity Huber did to break those conditions. Some conditions he had were:

10PM curfew
No contact with David White or Rob Rogers
No consumption of alcohol

He will return to court the same day that he was originally going to appear for the closing augments of the attack case.

I just hope this incident was just a misunderstanding or a fluke of coincidences; and that Adam was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. It pains me to hear that he is in trouble with the law again.

Comox Valley Echo
June 18th, 2010

One of the three men accused in the YouTube assault is in trouble again.

Adam Huber, 25, who has been out on bail, was back in court Thursday charged with violating the conditions of his release. Huber was alleged to have been caught drinking at Lewis Park on Wednesday night and was arrested.

Huber was released from jail pending a decision in the assault case involving Jay Phillips that was captured on video and posted on YouTube. He is forbidden from consuming alchohol or drugs and had a 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew.

As well, he is also facing several charges related to two drinking and driving incidents.

Comox Valley Record
June 17th, 2010

Adam David Huber, 25, one of a trio of men on trial for an assault on Jay Phillips, will return to court on a breach of his bail conditions following an incident in Lewis Park Wednesday night.

Adam Huber Out on Bail

2010-06-03T19:09:00.000-07:00

During the bail hearing today, Judge Peter Doherty has set Adam's bail at $1,000 with some conditions. They include:

No alcohol or drug consumption
Attendance to a sobriety support group
No contact with David White or Rod Rogers
Curfew from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
And more...

Although Adam has had a few problem with conditions set by the court in the past, I hope he'll stay out of trouble this time for family sake. I'm sure he will now that he realizes there are consequences to his actions.

Adam, along with David White and Rod Rogers, will return to court June 28th for closing arguments.

The Man Who Drove the Trio to Confront Jay Phillips

2010-06-02T02:46:00.000-07:00

Through court preceedings, we now know the driver of the red truck was Justin Stanley Smith (26) from Courtenay, BC.

*Retraction made for the reasons made by commenter below*

When is it Okay to Call Someone "Nigger"?

2010-05-30T05:48:00.000-07:00

Who was the instigator?

There are two sides that Judge Peter Dorothy has to take into consideration. Adam Huber’s account where she said David White yelled out “There’s a nigger” and that Jay over heard it and threw a water bottle; and Jay’s side, where he said that they were going to lynch him and his family. Lynching in the context where it was done in the Deep South and had black people put on impromptu trails in front of a mob and killed by hanging from a tree with a noose.

Did Jay overreact to being called a Nigger?

In a police interview, Adam Huber’s account started with David White yelling “There's a nigger” to the passengers in the truck from the bed. Now put yourself in Jay Philips’ shoes for a minute; the action police will want you to take is not to escalate the situation and to call the police and report it. As with anything when rage and adrenalin gets involve, judgement on what the right thing to do is hampered, and you only have a split second to decide your action.

Now, can you blame Jay for throwing a water bottle at the truck and calling them back to fight? If I was in his shoes, it would be hard for me to let something like that go without reacting to their words.

Or Should we Blame David White for the Racially Motivated Verbal Attack?

Can you blame David White for yelling out “Hey there’s a nigger” within ear shot of Jay wrong? I will go out and say yes, it is wrong. In countries like Germany, Austria, and some European countries, just drawing a swastika can land you in jail. Here in the Comox Valley, acts such as when David White hung himself from a tree with a noose and burning a cross were met with amusement and enjoyment among his peers. I also want to add, those acts are illegal in some American States, so those pictures of David White will have him in trouble if they were taken on US soil, something law makers here should think about.

This attitude is definitely sickening to me. In Canada, we like to think of ourselves as people with progressive ideals, but really, its countries like the United States, Germany, and Austria that are doing more to curb racial motivated violence by making sure people don’t celebrate racist culture. As I said in past blog posts, encouraging people to fly confederate flags, say racist jokes, and burning crosses will only reinforce racism into the people of the Comox Valley. And the result will be more verbal and physical attacks on people who are trying live life here in the beautiful Comox Valley.

Pussy vs Nigger?

David White claimed Jay called them "pussies" in reaction to his racist slurs. In the police interview, David White said, "he called us pussies — he wanted to take us all ... we called him some racial slurs."

When is it okay to call someone Nigger?

The trio had said in the interview with CHEK6 that they only used the word "Nigger" because Jay Phillips made them mad. Dean Slotz, in the interview asked “why the language,” the accused stated they weren’t racists but pissed off. They then defended their use of the N-word by saying it was used to make “him mad because he made [them] mad.” Huber also acknowledged that “it shouldn’t have been said.”

Their Account of the Events Leading to the fight

In the Dean Slotz interview, Adam said:

“we were driving the truck through the McDonalds drive-thru when we turned the corner, I guess Jay is his name is – is with a buddy of his on the corner, drove by, something may have been said, and I see a cheese burger flying through the air. That’s when we turned around -- we turned the truck around, and when we did, I preceded out of the truck to ask him ‘why, what are you throwing at my truck.’ He proceeded to throw his hands in the air and call us all names, slander, say he wanted to fight all 3 of us, he’ll take us all on. I don’t want to say the words that he used but that’s pretty much the gist of it.”

When the Stolz wanted to make clear which side the initial insult came from, one male answered:

“we’re not really sure, we seen the cheeseburger flying through the air. We turned around [the truck] and asked him what the deal was. He wouldn’t even answer us why he threw the cheese burger. He just kind of threw his hands in the air calling us all out… you know.”

Then the other male said, laughing afterwards:

“I just actually seen a cheese burger lying in the back of the truck.”

More from the Man Behind the Lense

2010-05-27T02:30:00.000-07:00

Comox Valley Record:
May 27th -Racism cited in assault

Vancouver Sun:
May 27th -Man who filmed assault of black man testifies

Victoria Times Colonist:
May 27th -Slur drew YouTube poster to fracas

National Post:
May 27th -Video of racial attack key evidence

New Perspective from a Reader

2010-05-27T01:37:00.000-07:00

I would like to share a comment an anonymous reader, which I found thoughtful and gives a new perspective to the case:

Anonymous said...I find it very interesting that for someone who is not attending these court dates, you have so much input on the entire subject. A lot IS being said about what is going on, but if you were actually there in person you would be able to see how much each person that has testified has a different story. Of course memory comes into play, and points are bound to vary, but you would also recognize that Jay Phillips is changing his story immensely and things are definitely not adding up. there is much to say about how the media has exposed the entire subject, plus the information that was given to the RCMP true AND false. I hope that this case brings light to how things can be quickly misconstrued and how rapidly people react to the worst in people. Yes, what the three accused of was shocking and horrifying, but it also could have been dealt with in a much more accurate and responsible manner, perhaps by sending the evidence of the fight that was recorded to the police instead of labeling it "3 white supremacists attack black male," or "hate crime," and then posting it carelessly onto youtube portraying these individuals as monsters when really you know absolutely nothing about these young men, who actually are loving human beings and deserve to be treated fairly just like anyone else. Many lives have been affected even ruined; accused and guilty by association and I just wish that people could understand that there are always two sides to a story and if people are so concerned, disgusted and upset about what they were exposed to, then maybe they should have found the time to look deeper into this and show their concern by showing their faces in the court room. I found it very interesting that in the heat of the moment and for most of the month of at least July, people were coming together to protest and show their support for Jay Phillips. Although yesterday and today looking around in the courtroom, only half of the seats were filled half of which are family members of the accused,the other half being mostly media. I'd also like to point out the fact that the media has crossed a lot of personal boundaries, not just of the 3 accused but also those of which that seem to be guilty by association. Peoples lives are personal and its unfortunate that certain news reporters have trespassed and exposed those that are not at all liable for what happened in that video. Its clear that you have put a lot of time and energy into this blog, and its much appreciated that you are staying up-to-date for those that are watching the case, but its also unfortunate that you have only taken the time to look into the lives of the trios criminal past and was not present to hear Jays past record that was brought up in court. Hope to see more faces tomorrow in court.

I would like to politely disagree with the Anonymous' comment point about how we only looked into the lives of the trio and not Jay’s.

1) Burning crosses, playing with a noose on a tree, and socializing in a room full of racist imagery has ingrained racist ideals and attitudes into young adults, and in this case it was David White. The result: David shouting out racist remarks to a visible minority to incite anger and for a reaction. Or did he do it because he thought it was funny?

2) What does Jay’s past have to do with why David White called him “Nigger”? Just because of Jay’s criminal past, David has the right to call him that word with such hate?

I will agree with how unfairly they were labeled white supremacist. In the age of Facebook, email, and MSN, it’s really easy for rumours to spread. However, I have been to parties on the island before where guys with shaved heads say stuff like “what’s up with this nigger noise” when referring to rap music, and have handed out Neo-Nazi literature to me. And the room that David, Adam and Damien were hanging out in reminded me so much of that party in Campbell River – confederate flags, swastikas and other racist images on the walls. Are you sure they are not racist? And if so, are you also sure it did not play a role in how the fight was instigated

You can respond to post in the comments section

Day 2 of the Trial

2010-05-26T19:37:00.000-07:00

There has been good coverage of the trail by local media outlets.

So far the people who testified were: Jay Philips, RCMP Const. Dean Biollo, Dean Soltz who interview the trio after the incident, Chris Kemila who shot the infamous video, and Adam's former common-law partner, Sonja Dickinson.

A lot of people are talking about how the relevance of Jay's past as a heroin addict 10 years ago played role in the altercation. Without being at the trial its hard to say, but a lot of people are saying the defense are just grasping at any strings they can get in a "smear campaign". Although I won't go as far as to say they're out to smear Jay Philips, but I think they might just be trying to vilify him.

There has been a lot of back lash towards the trio's defense counsel (aka lawyers). Its hard, but their job is to defend these guys and to make sure they get a fair trial. This includes exploring every avenue of defense. It may look bad on there part depending on your views, but these guys are just doing their job.

Comox Valley Record:
May 25th - Testimony underway
May 26th - Assault was racially motivated, Phillips testifies

CBC News:
May 26th - YouTube assault trial continues in B.C.

Vancouver Sun:
May 26th - Vancouver Island YouTube assault began with slurs: victim

CTV News:
May 26th - Courtenay YouTube assault trial begins

JetFM:
May 26th - YouTube Assault Trial Continues

Cross Burning in Nova Scotia Terrifies Interracial Couple

2010-04-27T23:57:00.000-07:00

I'm furious by comments on the blog of people playing down the act of burning crosses. It's an act of hate and terror. Plain and simple. People don't burn crosses for something to do -- they burn crosses to intimidate and to celebrate hate.

Recently an interracial couple in the small community of Poplar Grove, Nova Scotia awoke to a burning cross on their front lawn 2 months ago. By the time Shayne Howe got outside, all he heard was "Die nigger, die". Thankfully, two young men in their early 20's were caught and are being prosecuted for this hate crime - Justin Rehberg (19) and Nathan Rehberg (20).

Sadly, just last weekend the couple's car was torched and the police are currently investigating. It's no surprise, but the couple will be packing up and moving their children to a different community to start a new life. Who wins in this case? Its very sad, and I don't want to see this happen in our community.

Its very dangerous when our young people are practicing and celebrating racist culture. As parents, we have to watch our kids to make sure they don't burn crosses, post racist content on the internet, use racial epithets or draw racist imagery on personal belongings.

We have to do everything we can to try to keep our children out of trouble. It doesn't take much for young people to cross that line and act upon those racist attitudes. Especially with a little bit of alcohol, youths will lose all inhibitions.

Having our children start life with a criminal record and jail time is not what every parent wants. Instead, we want them to start life with an education and a good head on their shoulders.

David White and Adam Huber Seen with Racist Imagery

2010-04-25T19:29:00.000-07:00

It's unknown who's rumpus room this is, but it is littered with racists imagery and phrases. These include: "No Flat Brimmers and No Fags," "Whites Only," "Nayggers," "Triple White," and images of someone being hung from a noose, and sketch of a hooded character with the letters KKK.

Seen spending time in this room are David White and Adam Huber.

Despite all the racist and homophobic decor, the trio stated in an interview last year with Dean Stoltz from CHEK News that they are not a racist

David Samuel White Cross Burning

2010-04-25T16:35:00.000-07:00

In a shocking revelation, pictures were recently posted online from a friend of the trio on April 23rd, 2010. In a Facebook album titled with the date "08-09," David White can been seen constructing a cross on a camping trip. In later pictures, the cross can be seen set a blazed and a shadowy figure parading in front.

Erecting and burning a cross is an act of hate commonly done by the Ku Klux Klan for intimidation. Lets not let these foolish stunts intimidate the people who live and work in the Comox Valley.

I just hope nearby campers did not witness this burning of a cross that night.

David White Pictured Hanging from a Noose on a Tree

2010-04-25T13:21:00.001-07:00

We have unearthed photos from the facebook of David White and friends setting up a noose in the woods. To some, it looks like bunch of young men having fun with rope over a tree's branch, but in the United States displaying that kind of imagery is a punishable act (http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=315733). This is due to the long history of the noose being used as a symbol to represented the lynching of black African Americans by racist white Americans decades ago.

Looking at their pictures of confederate flags spray painted onto cars, and other pictures where the confederate flags are fragrantly displayed on walls and clothing makes me think these people like to revel in the culture of the American Deep South.

Looking back at the video of the attack, I now have a better understanding of the mind set of these boys.

Dog Urged to Attack Jay Philips in YouTube Video

2010-04-25T11:42:00.000-07:00

The forth guy who we though was urged to join the attack was actually Adam Huber's dog -- Spike.

Below is the amended transcript of the YouTube video.
-----------------------------------------------------------------

0:19 - Get him Spike get him, Get him boy, get him Spike. [Off camera voice]
0:27 - Get him Spike! [Off camera, audibly louder and angrier]

0:44 - Get him Adam [Unidentified Attacker]

0:45 – Just fuckin' do it Adam [Attacker1 then pats Attacker 2 on back]

0:48 - [Attacker2 throws a punch, no contact]

0:50 - Lets take him down [Unidentified Attacker]

0:55 - Guy in truck, Come'on! [JP]

1:10 - [JP falls to ground and is swarmed by the 3 attackers]

1:19 - Ah get up [Sounds like Attacker1]

1:21 - Come'on and fight you fuckin' Nigger [Unidentified Attacker, JP, however, still defenseless in headlock by Attacker1]

1:22 - [Attackers disperses as bystanders come to help]

2:25 - Ahhh come'on! You're fuckin' dead [JP is heard screaming after getting back on his feet]

2:34 - You're fuckin' killing me.. you fuckin (inaudible).. you're dead.. what the fuck.. come'on [JP]

2:49 - Niggers [Unidentified male]

2:53 - Come'on you fuckin' goons, don't look at me. [JP]

2:55 - Do you want to come with me? I'll take you were you gotta go. [Bystander to JP]

2:57 - Come'on guys lets go [Unidentified Attacker]

2:58 - Good bye nigger. [Attacker 1]

Picture Emerges of Adam Huber After a Fight

2010-04-24T13:46:00.000-07:00

* Screenshot was altered to protect the identities of people and children who are not of public interest. Tattoo was also enhanced and isolated to better depict it

On Adam's personal Facebook page, a picture showing him holding this newborn daughter, bruised and swollen was posted by Adam November 17, 2009 -- nearly 5 months after the incident involving Jay Philips. Taking his injuries in stride, Adam replied to a comment by writing, "still smiling ;)"

The 3rd commenter, with the same last name Huber, had the impression that Adam was the one who "provoked [this] punishment." What is not known is if those injuries were as a result of a fight before or after the attack on Jay Philips in July 2009.

The tattoo that was questioned in the infamous YouTube video can be clearly seen in this picture.

Man Sentence to 2 Years for Racial Motivated Attack in Ontario

2010-04-24T02:57:00.000-07:00

Acts of violence not only occur in rural BC, but Ontario as well. An epidemic of violence acts against immigrant anglers has made it to the forefront of news the in Ontario. Trevor Middleton, who was a promising and upcoming star in the world of motocross, was recently sentence to 2 years in prison for and attack that resulted to permanent brain damage to one of his victims. (read more:

http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Crime/2010/03/31/13419266-qmi.html)

These acts have been going for sometime now in rural Ontario, and attention as only been focus onto these racist attacks recently. Some have blamed the lack of response by some in the legal system, and the continued dismissal by some Ontario municipal and provincial leaders.

Lets hope our community, municipal, and provincial leaders here in the Comox Valley will learn from this case in Ontario so that we don't see an escalation of racial attacks against minorities here.

Date Set for Trial

2010-04-22T18:59:00.000-07:00

May 25-27 will be the new trial dates for Adam David Huber, Robert William Rogers, and David Samuel White. The trail will take place in Room 222 in the Courtenay Court House and is scheduled to start at 9:30AM on May 25th, 2010.

Trio heading to trial
Comox Valley Record - April 22, 2010

A new date has been set for the trial of the three men accused of assaulting Jay Phillips last summer, bumping the date up from the fall to next month.

A trial was originally scheduled for Oct. 4 for Adam David Huber, 25, Robert William Rogers, 25, and David Samuel White, 19. Following an application last month by Huber’s lawyer Tom Morino, the dates for the trial are May 25, 26 and 27, Judge Doherty confirmed Thursday morning.

The assault caught international media attention as an apparent act of racism, with three white men attacking the black Phillips.

http://www.bclocalnews.com/news/91873654.html

Trial Confirmation Hearing Date Set

2010-04-06T01:57:00.000-07:00

April 22nd, 2010 is the date set for the trial confirmation hearing of Adam Huber, David White, and Rod Rogers. Usually, a trail is set for a month after the confirmation hearing.

Lawyers of Trio File for New Court Date

2010-03-26T01:47:00.000-07:00

Picture sent in by reader of the day the men went joy riding in the Coutenay mudflats. (see video)

Now that Adam is in jail for the next few months, ~~the men's lawyers want to move the court date for the assult charges from August 19, 2010 to October 4, 2010.~~ (update 26/03/10 - According to an anonymous commenter, Aug 19th is a confirmation hearing for the trail date of Oct 4th)

Comox Valley Record, March 25th, 2010

Adam David Huber, 25, one of the three men accused of attacking Jay Phillips last summer, received a six-month jail sentence — less time already served — on unrelated charges.

Huber, appearing before the court last Thursday, pleaded guilty to two counts each of impaired driving, driving while prohibited and breaching court orders while at large on the assault charge.

In agreement with lawyers representing Robert William Rodgers, 26, and David Samuel White, 20, Huber’s lawyer Tom Marino also filed an application to move the Oct. 4 trial date for the trio ahead.

Currently, a hearing is scheduled for Aug.19.

Comox Valley Record, March 18th, 2010

A lawyer for Adam David Huber, 25, one of three men accused of assaulting Jay Phillips in Courtenay last summer, has filed an application to move the Oct. 4 trial date ahead.

Victoria-based lawyer Tom Morino presented the request to Judge Doherty Thursday morning with lawyers Doug Marion (representing Robert William Rogers, 25) and Eric Chesterley (representing David Samuel White, 19) agreeing with the application.

Morino told the Record having his client wait in custody until the original October court date “(is) something that doesn’t make sense to me.”

“I would ideally like to have (the trial) within the next month or two, but realistically, I don’t think that’s going to happen,” he added.

A hearing is scheduled for Aug. 19.

The assault caught international media attention, as the three white men attacking the black Phillips went viral on the Internet after it was caught on video camera and broadcast on YouTube.

Adam Huber Sentence to Six Months for Impaired Driving

2010-03-26T00:59:00.000-07:00

Adam was sentenced to 6months in prison for a rash of drinking and driving incidences. One of which had Adam blow through two stop signs with a near empty bottle of whiskey in his truck.

Adam now plans to move to Ontario to surround himself with better people when he gets out. Lawyers for all 3 men will return to court today to reschedule the court case on the attack on Jay Philips in 2009.

Island man in highly publicized assault jailed for impaired driving
Vancouver Sun, March 24th, 2010

One of three young white men accused of attacking a black man in a highly publicized assault caught on YouTube has been sent to jail on unrelated matters.

Adam David Huber received a six-month jail sentence on Thursday after pleading guilty to two counts each of impaired driving, driving while prohibited and breaching court orders while at large on the assault charge.

The alleged attack occurred on July 3. Charges were laid against Huber (25), Robert William Roy Rodgers (26) and David Samuel White (20) after a video of the incident was widely viewed on the YouTube video sharing service.

Four months later, on Nov. 13, 2009, Huber was arrested after a former police officer spotted a red pickup truck blowing through two stop signs on Fifth Street.

The witness, according to court testimony, saw Huber get out of the truck, stumble and then get back in and drive off.

He turned quickly onto Cliffe Avenue, but police sent to locate the vehicle lost it around 14th Street.

It was eventually found parked in front of a 14th Street business, Huber's wallet inside along with a nearly empty bottle of whiskey. Huber was found intoxicated in a nearby cul de sac.

He was released on a promise to appear that forbade him from consuming alcohol but two months later, on Jan. 8, he was found walking away from Gulliver's Pub after police got a report of a disturbance.

"Mr. Huber said I only had half a beer, it's still on the table inside," said Crown prosecutor M. Giri.

Huber was arrested for breaching and released again.

One month later, on Feb. 12 at 10:30 p.m., Huber was arrested again after he was spotted drinking alcohol while going through the McDonald's drive-thru.

He refused to blow. This time he was detained by Judge Peter Doherty after a bail hearing.

Huber's record includes one conviction for impaired driving and two others for driving without a licence.

Defence lawyer Tom Marino said his client "obviously has an issue with alcohol" and he has lost everything, including his work truck, since being taken into custody one month ago -- he gets credit for two months.

When released, Huber plans to return to Ontario so he can surround himself with a different circle of friends.

Judge Peter Doherty sentenced Huber to four additional months in jail on the impaired and breach charges, fined him $600 for the two driving while prohibited charges and suspended his driver's licence for two years.

Conditions of Huber's probation include that he attend substance abuse counseling, including residential treatment.

"Mr. Huber, you obviously have an alcohol problem, looking at your record and the kind of trouble you get in," said Doherty.

A trial on the assault charge for Huber and his two co-accused had originally been scheduled for September.

Lawyers for all three men agreed to return to court on March 25 to get a new, earlier trial date.

Adam Huber to Remain in Jail Until Trail

2010-02-28T01:22:00.000-08:00

More new again about Adam Huber. Looks like on Feb 12th, 2010 he was arrested again for impaired driving.

I'm sadden to hear that because Adam had been trying to start his own business with his girlfriend. And now that he is unable to drive, that will hurt his ability to run his business and support his child.

One of three accused in alleged Island racist attack, in jail facing other charges
COMOX VALLEY, FEBRUARY 19, 2010

One of three men accused of attacking another man in a McDonald's parking lot last summer will remain in custody until his charges are dealt with.

Adam David Huber (24) was denied bail on Monday after being arrested on Friday for impaired driving, refusing to blow and driving while prohibited.

Huber and two other men, David Samuel White and Robert William Roy Rodgers, are accused of assaulting Jay Philips on July 3 in an attack that was caught on YouTube and broadcast around the world. There were allegations of racism since Phillips is black and the three accused are white.

The ensuing media firestorm put the Comox Valley in the international spotlight for all the wrong reasons. The fight was widely condemned, with a large rally held by local residents days later and statements denouncing the incident from MP John Duncan, Mayor Greg Phelps and other local politicians.

Some have characterized the attack as being racially motivated. The Crown has previously said that, should they get a conviction, they would then make a decision as to whether or not a stiffer sentence should be sought under Canada's hate crime legislation.

All three men have pleaded not guilty. A three-day trial is scheduled to start on Oct. 4.

Huber's arrest on Feb. 12 marks his third since the alleged attack. He had previously been picked up for impaired driving and driving while prohibited on Nov. 13. He was arrested again on Jan. 8 for breaching his release conditions. Huber also came under fire from the local provincial court judge when he was twice late for court appearances.

All told, Huber now faces one charge of assault, five breaches, two impaired driving charges, two charges each of driving while disqualified and driving while prohibited and one charge for refusing to provide a sample of his breath.

Huber will remain in custody until his trial in October, barring an appeal of the bail decision, a change in plea or some other circumstance that allows the court to deal with the various charges earlier.

He is next expected in court on Feb. 25 for a first appearance on the most recent charges and to consult counsel on the remaining charges.

http://www.timescolonist.com/news/three+accused+alleged+Island+racist+attack+jail+facing+other+charges/2587815/story.html#ixzz0h0gE4u5a

Adam Huber Caught on Tape Using Homophobic Language

2010-02-03T21:24:00.000-08:00

This CBC News report shows Adam's homophobic remarks after being chased by CHEK news crew. After running, Adam said to the cameraman, "you're a fag bud, get the fuck out of here you fuckin' homo."

Looks like they ran from the court house (map of route) to the train station, where Adam was caught using the inappropriate language. It was probably a 1km chase.

Publication Ban on Adam Huber's Court Records

2010-01-28T23:39:00.000-08:00

There is a publication ban on both his impaired driving and his case regarding the assault on Jay Philips July of last year. You can visit the BC Court Records here to view public records on any court case: https://eservice.ag.gov.bc.ca/cso/esearch/criminal/partySearch.do

All that we know is that Adam will be appearing in court again February 4, 2010.

Video Shows David White Throwing Young Man out of Adam Huber's Truck

2010-01-28T23:14:00.000-08:00

Someone pointed me to this video that shows David White "flingin" (as titled in the YouTube Video) Andrew out of the truck as Adam Huber drives over a ditch. Also seen in the video is Robert Rogers. The video was posted by the user theherbsmoker on YouTube over two years ago: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-m7q88jcmg

The young man who was thrown out of the truck also commented on the YouTube page. A year later, someone claiming to be his brother replied:

New Charges Laid for Adam Huber

2010-01-13T12:40:00.000-08:00

Trouble follows Adam Huber where ever he goes. He is now charged with drunk driving according to this Times Colonist report.

Member of trio charged with assault now facing impaired driving charges
Comox Valley Echo, Tuesday, January 12, 2010

One of the three men charged in the fight with Jay Philips that garnered widespread attention after being posted to YouTube is now facing a charge of impaired driving.

Adam David Huber had a first appearance on the new charge in Courtenay Provincial Court on Thursday.

Huber faces charges for driving while impaired, operating a motor vehicle while disqualified, driving while prohibited and breaching a court order.

Huber is next expected in court on those charges on Jan. 28. All three men are expected in court on August 19 for a trial confirmation hearing in connection with the alleged assault on Philips.
http://www2.canada.com/comoxvalleyecho/news/story.html?id=35bf3010-e218-4d57-a8ff-8b7aceb6b13c

Man in alleged Island racist incident faces impaired driving charge
Times Colonist,
January 12, 2010

One of the three men charged in the fight with Jay Philips that garnered widespread attention after being posted to YouTube is now facing a charge of impaired driving.

Adam David Huber had a first appearance on the new charge in Courtenay Provincial Court on Thursday.

Huber faces charges for driving while impaired, operating a motor vehicle while disqualified, driving while prohibited and breaching a court order.

Huber is next expected in court on those charges on Jan. 28. All three men are expected in court on August 19 for a trial confirmation hearing in connection with the alleged assault on Philips. In that incident, a video was posted on the Internet that created a furor with allegations that the fight was racially motivated.
http://www.timescolonist.com/news/alleged+Island+racist+incident+faces+impaired+driving+charge/2436712/story.html

Next Court Date Not for Another Year: Aug 2010

2009-12-01T22:23:00.000-08:00

August 19th, 2010 Courtenay Law Courts

We'll keep you posted on any developments 'till then.

3 Men in Courtenay Attack Pleads Not Guilty

2009-10-13T22:24:00.000-07:00

No Court date has been set yet. We'll keep you posted.

Not guilty, claims trio

During an arraignment hearing Thursday morning, the three men accused of assaulting Jay Phillips in an attack in Courtenay caught on camera and broadcast on YouTube pleaded not guilty to the charges.

http://www.bclocalnews.com/vancouver_island_north/comoxvalleyrecord/news/63813712.html

Update: Adam Huber "Late" for court, Arrested Same Day

2009-10-03T18:46:00.000-07:00

Looks like Adam Huber was late for court again. Judge had enough and sent the RCMP to pick him up for court.

Pleas imminent in alleged race-motivated attack on man

Sheriffs soon picked him up and he was held in cells for several hours before being brought before Doherty.

Both of Huber's co-accused -- Robert William Rodgers (25) and David Samuel White (19) -- have lawyers and are prepared to plead their cases while Huber remains unrepresented after being denied legal aid.

http://www.canada.com

Adam Huber No Show for Court

2009-09-27T02:35:00.000-07:00

Looks like there is another warrant for Adam Huber's arrest. He didn't show up for court last week, so a judge issued a bench warrant. They scheduled again Oct 8th in Room 222 at the Courtenay Law Courts.

36042-1	HUBER, ADAM David	1	Courtenay Law Courts	24-Sep-2009 09:00 AM	216	AHR	WI
36042-1	RODGERS, ROBERT William Roy	1	Courtenay Law Courts	24-Sep-2009 09:00 AM	216	AHR	SBD
36042-1	WHITE, DAVID Samuel	1	Courtenay Law Courts	24-Sep-2009 09:00 AM	216	AHR	SBD

September Court Date

2009-08-26T02:17:00.000-07:00

The 3 accused will appear in court September 10th, 2009 at 9am for an arrangement hearing. There, charges will be read out by the judge.

--------------------------------------

Location: Courtenay Law Courts
Room: 216

Reason: AHR

Statute: S. 266 C.C.C. Assault with a Weapon or Assault Causing Bodily Harm

Offence Date: 20-Sept-2009

Document: 36042-1

Adam Huber Caught using Homophobic Language

2009-08-19T23:57:00.000-07:00

Vancouver Sun: Trio involved in assault have first court appearance

None of the men spoke in court, but Huber shouted homophobic slurs at a CHEK News television reporter who chased he and White for eight blocks after leaving the courthouse

http://www.vancouversun.com/Trio+involved+assault+have+first+court+appearance/1859597/story.html

Trio to Appear in Court Today

2009-08-19T23:50:00.000-07:00

Location: Courtenay Law Courts
Room: 216

Reason: OBC

Statute: S. 266 C.C.C. Assault with a Weapon or Assault Causing Bodily Harm

Offence Date: 03-Jul-2009

Document: 36042-1

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

We'll see what happens after today

2nd Court Appearance Scheduled for Aug 20th

2009-08-10T22:05:00.001-07:00

The three had their first court apperence July 31th. It is unknown what the result of the apperance was. According to Court Services Online, the three men will be back in court for August 20th.

Just recently, Adam Huber appeared in court for another, unrelated charged on July 15th, 2009.

Hate crime accused say they feel threatened

Three Courtenay, B.C. men who face assault charges in connection with an allegedly racially motivated fight that showed up on YouTube say they are being victimized.

The three made their first court appearances Thursday in Courtenay, about 220 kilometres north of Victoria, in connection with a July 3 attack on Jay Phillips, 38.

The men — David Samuel White, 19, Adam David Huber, 24, and Robert William Rodgers, 25 — told CBC News following the appearance that they believe the incident has been blown out of proportion and that they are now feeling threatened.

They provided no details of any threats.

Phillips, who is black, was punched and kicked in a fast-food restaurant parking lot in the Vancouver Island city.

Jay Phillips talks with CBC News about the attack he suffered in Courtenay, B.C., on July 3. (CBC)
A video of the brawl appeared on YouTube within days. It is not known who shot the video and posted it to the website.

Each of the men was released on his own recognizance after charges were laid earlier this month, and they won't enter pleas until their next appearance, on Aug. 20.

Phillips, who suffered cuts and bruised ribs, alleged the men shouted racial epithets and threatened him and his family with violence during the fight.

RCMP Const. Tammy Douglas said there are indications the attack was racially motivated and the Mounties have asked their hate crime team to look into it.

It is, however, being treated as an isolated incident and will not be labelled a hate crime until all the evidence is in, Douglas said.

http://www.cbc.ca/canada/british-columbia/story/2009/07/30/bc-courtenay-assault-racial.html

Courtenay Sets Example for Country

2009-07-23T18:57:00.000-07:00

Richmond Review: Canada is in an excellent position to foster harmony

Most recently, a 38-year-young black person, Jay Phillips, was attacked by three Caucasian youth. This happened (without any provocation from the victim) in broad daylight in Vancouver Island community of Courtenay. This ugly incident was viewed on YouTube worldwide. To their credit, the residents of Courtenay organized a big rally there and expressed their disgust and rejection of such behaviour. They sent a strong message against racism and hate crime.

http://www.bclocalnews.com/opinion/letters/51516132.html

City hits back with Protocol alternative

2009-07-22T00:27:00.000-07:00

Comox Valley Echo: Mayor wins narrow support for new statement of values

Last night Phelps persuaded a majority of his council to support a 'statement of community values' he had prepared in a bid to show they supported the spirit of the protocol if not the precise wording.

He also hoped the Community Justice Centre - which promoted the protocol initiative - was still open to minor changes to their own wording that would make it acceptable to Courtenay.

And he offered to help compile a more detailed protocol document that would set out a clear, easy-to-understand and step-by-step action program that could be implemented when an incident took place.

His new statement was supported by three councillors - Jon Ambler, Murray Presley and Larry Jangula - but opposed by Ronna-Rae Leonard and Manno Theos.

http://www.canada.com/City+hits+back+with+Protocol+alternative/1813714/story.html

Police Say 3 Men Not Involved in Second Attack

2009-07-16T21:28:00.000-07:00

Looks like the RCMP believes that they were only involved in the first attack.

Comox Valley Record: No additional charges for YouTube threesome

Comox Valley RCMP say now that the three men charged were not involved in that fight, and that there was no connection between the two incidents. Comox Valley RCMP were unavailable to comment why the warrants were issued or to answer any further questions about the second assault.

http://www.bclocalnews.com/vancouver_island_north/comoxvalleyrecord/news/50983497.html

More Reports of Attacks at Courtenay McDonalds

2009-07-16T13:10:00.000-07:00

I think they need a camera at the McDonalds

Comox Valley Echo: Just Regular Jackasses

Last Friday after a few drinks and dancing at a local bar my friends and I had our designated driver hit the Courtenay McDonalds drive thru where we had the pleasure of watching an orange-haired male in a plaid coat beat another kid down to the ground. Once he had him down he proceeded to kick his head into the side of the concrete building about twenty times. In front of a bunch of other kids, some who were presumably friends of the victim and who pretty much all did NOTHING?

http://www.canada.com/Just+Regular+Jackasses/1790627/story.html

Reasoning and Motive of Second Attack Could be a Ploy to Disguise Hate Attack

2009-07-15T08:25:00.000-07:00

I believe the second attack was premeditated in the 3.5 hours after the attack on Jay Phillips. A plan was devised to make it appear that they were not racist to police by attacking a white teenaged boy.

After the attack the must have known they did something really bad. Why else would one of the men try to cover up the license plate of the truck while leaving the scene of the crime.

A-News / CTV Interviews Mother of Victim of Second Courtenay Hate Attack

2009-07-13T23:19:00.000-07:00

More is now being reported:

3.5 Hours later (approx 11:30pm) a junior-high-aged child was assaulted by a group of men where an unidentified 19-year-old man taunted the boy into a fight. Earlier reports mentioned the 3 men were participants.
The attack happened in the parking lot of the same McDonalds that was across the street from the attack on Jay Phillps.

After the fight, one of the men in the group said that the “tight skater pants” were associated with n****ers and that they were actually “n****er killers.”
They were released on condition to appear in court last week, but now are wanted under an unendorsed warrant due to this second attack coming to light. This means they’ll be under arrest until their court date.

Unknowns:

Not known if they are currently in custody under new warrant
Not known who else was involved in the second attack
Not known what happened in the 3.5 hours between the two attacks.

Theories on why another attack was formulated for 3.5 hours later:

Wanted to call Phillips out for another fight by using the N-word so close to the scene of the first attack.
Wanted to make it seem like they're not racist by attacking someone the same race as them. Since they shouted the N-word eariler during the attack of a black man, they wanted to let the RCMP know that they can use the N-word in a non-racial way -- by attacking a white child and using the N-word.
Wanted to spread the blame on more guys by inviting more people to come watch a second attack. OR wanted more witnesses to point (2) above.

The mother of the child victimized in the second attack told A-News:

In the interview with A-News, the mother said, "He's a skater so he wears the tight jeans and he was told he shouldn't wear jeans like that because, quote, 'that's how niggers wear their pants', so he looked like a nigger, that they hated niggers, they were actually nigger killers." Then the reporter said that one person made reference to the attack on Jay Phillips 3.5 hours earlier that evening.

"I'm saying then why three hours later were you in the parking lot of the McDonald's saying, bragging once again about the fight and going on about being nigger killers?" the mother said.

Watching the interview, I thought the mother was inelegant at expressing herself, which made me question the sincerity of everything she was claiming.

------------------------------------------------------------

*UPDATE 14.7.2009* after no statement from police since monday, they released some information to the Comox Valley Echo:

Echo: Trio charged in attack now suspected of second assault, Police hoping residents won't take vigilante action

Douglas said the second attack was not racially motivated, something that Phillips confirms.

"I think the victim's mother is white, but I think it was what he was wearing, that's what she said to me last night," said Phillips on Friday.

Douglas appealed to the public to remain calm in the wake of the highly publicized attacks.

http://www.canada.com/Trio+charged+attack+suspected+second+assault/1790598/story.html

New Junk Food Instigation Incident Reported in Vancouver

2009-07-13T22:39:00.000-07:00

Another report of a violent crime steaming from junk food being thrown.

Adam Huber claims Jay Phillips, who was on his way to the gym, was the instigator with an alleged cheeseburger (video). Police report a water bottle was thrown instead when Phillips was verbally assaulted, racially.

CTV News: Potato chip thrower threatened with gun
A Richmond, B.C., man is facing 15 criminal charges after allegedly threatening a woman with a gun after she threw a potato chip at his truck.
http://www.ctvbc.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20090713/bc_potato_chip_gun_090713/20090713/?hub=BritishColumbiaHome

Great Editoral in Vancouver Sun on Racism in Canada

2009-07-13T11:00:00.000-07:00

Racism happens to everyone, even against white people. We must stop the circle of hate and the stupid blame game where people blame everyone else. Stop it now... and just judge everyone on an individual basis.

Vancouver Sun: We can't stamp out hate, but we can defend tolerance
Among incidents motivated by race or ethnicity, about half targeted blacks, 13 per cent South Asians, 12 per cent Arabs or West Asians, five per cent Southeast Asians (Chinese, Japanese, Koreans, etc.) and five per cent Caucasians. Although only one in 10 hate crimes were motivated by sexual orientation, such attacks were more likely than others to involve violence.
Canada takes pride in its diversity but our multicultural mosaic is truly a fragile co-existence that must be managed with care.

http://www.vancouversun.com/news/stamp+hate+defend+tolerance/1788066/story.html

Keeping Courtenay Safe Blog on the Defense

2009-07-13T01:42:00.000-07:00

My intention when I started this blog was mainly to point out a big problem we have in the Comox Valley, and those are drug houses and crack houses where the Valley’s hooligans live. They’ve been around for a long time, for over 12 years I’ve seen no change. I don’t think they’re on every street corner, but I think every neighborhood has one. They harbor criminals, young prostitutes, and sometimes hate groups. I know drugs houses are everywhere and in every city in this country, but I think we’re a small enough community to curb them and eliminate.

So the day after the attack all my friends were talking about the attacks and how they lived in a drug house and are white supremacists, I got really really upset.

I thought to myself, is this what we’re going to see more of? Coupled with the fact a good friend of mind was jumped buy a group of hooligans when he was younger. After that he was always afraid to be out late. Then you always hear stories of someone close to you getting roughed up or something.

At that moment I asked myself: what was being done about it? Why do these reports of unprovoked attacks never stop? Do I still want to raise my children there?

What Good Does Talking About the Issues Do?

I want to bring light onto this issue. That way the citizens of Courtenay can be educated when they vote for a new Mayor, City Council Members, and School Board Trustees in the civil elections. Also people should know about these problems with young people before voting for their MLA.

It is also good that we know about the issues that plague our community so that we can take our concerns to the already elected members of local government.

My Suggestion to Fix Our Problem:
http://keepcourtenaysafe.blogspot.com/2009/07/rampant-accounts-of-reverse-racism-from.html

This Blog is Helping Spread Rumors

That might be true, but what I’m trying to do is hold the media and police accountable. I believe that the RCMP was not going to invested or probe the issues as closely as they did without the intense media attention and questioning. Without it, I think, the case would have been swept under the rug without the public knowing of it.

Also, I think critical thinking and questioning is needed to maintain accountability with our public officials, like our Mayor and city council who didn’t say a word about the attack while they voted on a protocol, made to end hate related crimes in the Comox Valley. Could have said, “Hey the wording isn’t right, so in light of the recent attack, let’s send this back and get things rolling again soon.”

You can read my rant to City Hall Here:
http://keepcourtenaysafe.blogspot.com/2009/07/question-that-still-need-answers.html

The coverage will give the men an unfair trail and sentencing

Even with the coverage, our Justice and Court System will treat this case fairly. They will use the facts gather by police and will determined if any crime was committed that day.

And if the media coverage has biased the sentencing, then we have a bigger problem – a flawed justice system. But I have faith in it because I know how honorable, righteous and diligent our court system is.

-------------------------------

*UDATE 12.7.2009* Just read a blog comment I agree with and would like to share:

I watched as the Courtenay City Council rejected signing the Justice Committees Protocol for dealing with harassment, intimidation & racism.

Anneal Datto shared a personal story of racism that he encountered as a young man on a soccer team.

Mayor Phelps response was "Maybe we should ban Soccer."

I can see the point that this document may be flawed; the wording may not be perfect and the protocol perhaps redundant.

Greg and councillors agreed that it's simply a "Feel Good" document. Right now I need to Feel Good! Courtenay needs to Feel Good, We need to feel Safe, and we need to feel part of a community that shares the values of this protocol.

Stop being so stubborn; in light of these recent events, your reasons don't seem so valid anymore.

Sign the damned protocol.

John Van Egmond

Mother of Child in Second Attacked, Claims Victim Was Targeted for Being Emo

2009-07-12T15:41:00.000-07:00

We have now learned that the second attack on July 3rd, that has just come to light to the Police and the public, was an attack where the victim, who is white, was targeted for wearing tight skater pants.

Mother claims that "racial" remarks were then made regarding the boy's pants. It now reported by the mother to be a "one-on-one" engagement, with a crowd watching, instead of the "3-on-one" reported by the Vancouver Province Newspaper and police on friday(link). It is also reported that statmets were then made referencing the eariler assault, on Jay Phillips, during the attack.

The Vancover Province reported (link) that the second attack happened "just hours after the first attack." Still unknown what happened in the time between the two attacks. In an offical RCMP press release:

Subsequent investigation has now revealed that a second altercation later the same evening took place, and may be related to these same individuals.
http://bc.rcmp.ca/ViewPage.action?siteNodeId=50&contentId=10379

-------------------------------------

Voilent crime agaisnt people who participate in the Emo subculture is not new. Emo attacks occur all over the world. Most anti-Emo attacks are fueled by homophobia. They occur independent of the person's race. Take for example the anti-Emo attacks in Mexico that frequently occur there.

I hope we don't see more of these attacks on people based on who they are and what they wear. No matter if you're Goth, Rock-a-billy, Cowboy, Emo, Skater, or Hippie, we should have the freedom to wear whatever we like and where we like without being targeted for the chic we're in.

Time Magaine: Mexico's Emo-Bashing Problem
http://www.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,1725839,00.html

Let work to make sure that it doesn't become our problem as well.

Insight Into Life of One of the Accused Attackers by Loving Sister

2009-07-12T12:47:00.000-07:00

We learn more into the personal story of one of the three men charged. I think it's a sad situation but we must learn from it. I want to thank his sister on speaking out and providing solutions and helping the community heal from this event.

Excerpt from the Keep Courtenay Safe Facebook Group:

David and his so called “friends” fucked up really bad, and they’re going to lose this one, for a huge reason (but not the only reason), it was caught on camera.
I’m sure some of you are travelers in some way, every where around the world there are hate crimes, and it just shocks all of us because it happened so close to home. Do yourselves a favor, see the world and don’t get stuck in a small town like Courtenay where you become jaded and stupid. Educate yourselves by opening yourself up to the world, choose enlightenment over happiness, we often forget what we were taught as small children (and Tina Berg, I thank my mom constantly for teaching us that color doesn’t matter) because we surround ourselves with Courtenay “jiggers” and people that don’t actually care about our well beings. Racism still exists and forever will, but we CAN do something about it! Even our beloved messed up Michael Jackson (RIP) as corny as this may seem said in one of his songs, “If you want to make the world a better place, take a look at yourself, and then make a change.”

My siblings and I were brought up Orthodox Jewish for 6 years!??? We were NOT taught to discriminate against color in any way; in fact my dad preached the complete opposite on a near day to day basis. My Father converted while my brother was teased starting at the age of 8 years old. The whole change took a toll on my family. My father later on due to many hardships committed suicide and had previously influenced my brother into drugs and my brother spent a lot of time surrounded by other messed up kids in a juvenile institute at the age of 14. He and the rest of my family have seen things that most adults will never experience. It fucked with his head, and there is NEVER an excuse to HATE on other races, what he and his friends did that day was wrong in every sense of the word, and believe me he IS terrified. There HAVE been threats to not only him but to the families involved. I WILL NOT stand aside, or hide in a cave just because he is my brother. I love my brother, and I called him as soon as I heard just to tell him that, but I also told him my intake on the whole scenario.

http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=100285394590&topic=9066

Claims of Clean Criminal Record in CHEK Interview by 3 Men are Questioned

2009-07-12T11:36:00.001-07:00

Seems that only Adam Huber has an exstensive court record. The other two men have spotless records.

Court Services Online: Search Criminal By Participant Name
https://eservice.ag.gov.bc.ca/cso/esearch/criminal/partySearch.do

Mother of Victim Claims Racisim is Alive and Well

2009-07-11T20:50:00.001-07:00

Racism is real. It happens when we don't question the use of racially offensive jokes from friends, even when it is said behind closed door. It happens when we pre-judge someone as a "drunk native" when all they want is to buy bottle of wine for dinner. It happens when you let it slide when you let your children they mock accent of a diffrent culture. And it also happens when you label someone a racist for just being a cowboy.

You might not think much of it, or think that it's not racist behaviour, but its a pretense that instills ignorance in people's psych. Then oneday it will come out in an ugly fasion, like it did on July 3rd.

Kirsten Phillips, mother of Jay Phillips, was interviewed by Vancouver Province:

Initially, Kirsten felt the gut-wrenching emotion of a mother watching her son on the pavement getting hammered by six fists.

“My heart stood still and I still choke up when I watch the video,” she said. “But I had to cheer when Jason got up and they started to scatter like little flies.”

“It shows racism is alive and well,” she added. “First and foremost, people are talking about it.”

http://www.canada.com/life/Racism+alive+well+says+mother/1782807/story.html

Adam Huber Refutes Claims of Bigotry

2009-07-11T19:36:00.001-07:00

It’s never good when a child is separated from their father. But are there exceptions to that rule? I do pray for the child, its mother, and for their lives to return back to normal.

Hopefully this experience will turn a page in Huber’s life and set him in a new positive direction, so that he can be a proper father, who is not full of hate, to his child. I would like to end this with a quote from the famed Denis Leary – “Racism isn't born, folks, it's taught. I have a two-year-old son. You know what he hates? Naps! End of list.”

One of the men involved, Huber, told the Times Colonist he is not a racist and publicity over the incident has cost him his girlfriend, who left with his son, and his home, because he's been forced to move as a result of threats against him. "We're not white supremacists, we're not KKK," Huber said. "It was totally not because he was black."

http://www.timescolonist.com/news/T....

Surprising to me too, I do pray and hope the 3 charged will change their way of thinking. Any punishment should include cultural education. Maybe send them backpacking around the world to see how we should instead celebrate how rich in culture the whole world is, and how here in Canada, we are fortunate enough to have a little bit of everything. Celebrate how we're all diffrent, instead of doing that stupid circle of hate where you just blame other people. People who are racist should just stop it and treat other people how you would like to be treated yourself. Because if you don't, the circle of hate will continue.
*However, if they're found to be white supremacists, I'll pray just little bit less for them*

Men Charged Known in the Commuity As Racists and Trouble Makers According to Post

2009-07-11T16:48:00.001-07:00

Are any of these 3 men known to police? According to their CHEK interview, they claim to have a clean record.

"..... A couple of the "quality" people live in my neighbourhood and always are disrupting the area with loud parties telling the neighbourhood to f off and mind their own business, when you want them to shut-up at 2am. Since their movie came out they have not been around and the area has been nice and quiet every night since.

I hate to say it but the point of my posts was it has been nice and quiet in my neighbourhood since this all came to light. They have been lying low and scarce, haven't been kept awake or woke up at 2am since, it has been very nice. I have staff that know these guys and they tell me this is not out of character for them,

and they are very much tilted towards the racist side. They revel in the deep south thinking, including the confederate flags throughout their homes and a string of racist comments and jokes regularly."

I, and many others, have complained online about the flagrant display of the Confedrate Flag in the Comox Valley, which had no role in Canadian history. However, in any other "progressive" (used for a lack of a better term) city it wouldn't be acceptable. I don't believe we should have a bylaw against having it displayed (considering what happened at the last Courtenay City Counsel meeting, I don't think they would had cared anyways). I believe people should have the freedom to say and display anything they want, as long as it doesn't offend the population at large. Only that we, the public, should frown upon its display as a tasteless act. If you're a true Canadian and proud of it and want to support the feedom that comes with it, then I would fly the Canadian flag!

Whether we like it or not, Courtenay is widely known as a "hick" town. Some people relish the city's title, while some people despise it. Also, I want to say that Cowboys are not racists and there is such a thing as a sophisticated cowboy who still drives a 4-wheel drive. Look at Alan Jackson - he's a real cowboy and also a real classy stand up guy. Like how Calgary is refered to as loving a Country City, can we be progress and still be able to wear our cowboy hats & boots without being labled a racist? In Calgary everyone dresses country... white, black, brown, whatever... it's rual country culture they celebrate there. If anything, these 3 boys have also attacked the freedom and reputation of cowboys everywhere. Whatever the case, we all call the Comox Valley our home and we want to keep it a safe and respectable place for anyone to live and work.

CHEK/GlobalTV 'Their side of the story' Interview, Now Removed from Their Video Archive UPDATE

2009-07-11T16:37:00.000-07:00

*UPDATE 12.7.2009* Video may have been taken off due to symbol shown. Too soon to speculate until more on the symbol, displayed on Adam Huber's sweater, can be learned.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Today, CHEK/GlobalTV removed their contraversial interview with the 3 men charged with a racially motivated attack on Jay Phillips, a black man from Courtenay, BC.

Possibly because the reporting was flawed (video, my concerns) on the video, IMO, is a little self incriminating to the 3 attackers. Or that their account of what happened during the fight did not match the short timeline in the video. One of which is how they claimed they let Jay Phillips back on his feet because they thought he had enough. In the video, it was clearly shown that one of the attackers stopped the onslaught of punches when he notices two cars driving into the complex to intervene.

The video is full of inconsistencies of what has been reported and shown on video. I don't have time to talk about them all, but when I do, I might post the video on youtube and point most of them out.

Read More
Keep Courtenay Safe Blog: http://keepcourtenaysafe.blogspot.com/2009/0........
National Post: http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/posted/archive/20.....
Comox Valley Echo: http://www.canada.com/racists+involved+ass.......

Rampant Accounts of Reverse Racism on Whites, by Aboriginals

2009-07-11T15:20:00.000-07:00

I’ve been reading the boards, facebook groups, and online forums about unprovoked attacks by Natives on the island. They all seem to follow the same format:

White guys minds his own business doing stereotypical guy thing
Describes unprovoked attack where a group of native guys uses racially degrading names
Complains about how nothing became of it or that justice was not served.

The number of these posts and their similarity makes it seem like there is an epidemic of racially motivated attacks of White people by native men. But I just think that there is a group who is trying to use the attack as a way to promote their hate. And if you guys are reading this: This is our town, our problem, and we'll deal with it the Canadian Way! so bugger off.

I’m not denying that there are not any racially motivated attacks committed by a small number of native men. I even know of an account of a friend of mine who was chased by a group of young native men for being white in the interior of BC. But that doesn’t affect my relationship with my other aboriginal friends because I know not everyone is like them. By doing so, I’m breaking the circle of hate.

If we continue the circle of hate, people will blame other people for being jerks, then those people will blame the first people for being jerks… and it will go on and on in a big circle.

If we judge everyone individually when we meet them, we won’t have this problem of hating someone based on their skin colour. Instead you would dislike someone for not returning your stereo, or them returning your car with an empty tank of gas.

Everyone has a different opinion. I like the colour orange and I hate cooked onions because of their texture. I’m pretty sure not all white people hate onions as much as I do, so why should they think the same about race?

Identify Problem: Unfortunately, most often than not, it's mainly misguided young, could be white or native, men who without strong family and community support, usually committing crimes of hate or join hate groups.

Provide Solutions: As a community, strong, positive local role models should be supported. Role models could be someone teaching young men and women the discipline of playing a sport. Or providing extra support to a troubled youth who is routinely expelled from school (one of Jay Phillips' attacker, Adam Huber, was rumored to be expelled from Cumberland Junior School). Sometimes when family situation isn't strong at home, the school district can identity those children and provide them with an afterschool activity that doesn’t involve, a barrier to entry, costly school fee.

There are many charitable groups who help youths, but the support from a school board level is needed to close the gap and idenifty troubled youths. Things like this cost money, and would have to be paid by the Valley’s taxpayers. But I think it’s worth it to have a city full of positively energized kids running around, rather than a bunch of trouble making youth and thugs owning the streets.

Credibility of Statment from Second Victim in Question

2009-07-11T04:21:00.000-07:00

I'm saddened to hear that there maybe a second victim, who's assault,3 hours later, is just coming to light. It is unknown if this boy is known to any of the attackers.

An attacker seen covering up licence place while leaving the scene of the fight

I am again saddened to hear that the junior-high-aged boy won't be pressing charges. But who can blame him with all this media attention. At least he is providing valuable information to the police that maybe useful in Jay Phillips' case according to a press statement by RCMP Const. Tammy Douglas.

The 3 men charged with attacking, 38-year-old, Jay Phillips, said in an interview with CHEK, “It could have happened to anyone – white or black. We’re not into that crap.”

An attack did happen to someone black, and reportedly, someone white as well. Did the statement in the interview, coupled with the race of Phillips and the young boy, conveniently or coincidently mirror each other?

Phillips said a mother had called him and reported her junior-high-aged boy had been attacked, allegedly by White, Huber and Rodgers.

"She was crying, saying they beat him up just for what he was wearing," Phillips said. "I told her to press charges."

Douglas said the alleged victim does not want charges laid, but information from the alleged attack can be used to add evidence to the Phillips attack case.

http://www.theprovince.com/news/Victim+Phillips+happy+three+Courtenay+charged+with+assault/1779344/story.html

~~Why did the mother contact Phillips first? Why did she not put her trust in the RCMP first?~~ (I have no proof she contacted Phillips first). Unclear if the boy was targeted for his style of clothes, or for color affliation of clothing (like the rivarly between the Bloods and the Crips).

Did the 4th man/boy in the dark top seen in the video also drive the group of thugs to the second attack as well? If so, will he be charged as an accessory by the police?

This Time Fair Reporting by CHEK on Interview

2009-07-10T18:30:00.000-07:00

I wrongly reported the host was Hudson Mack last night, but I think he works for A-News now.

I'm glald to see CHEK News is using the interview they did with the 3 charged fairly tonight on their 6PM broadcast. I haven't seen Global National yet.

Questions that Still Need to be Answered

2009-07-10T14:32:00.000-07:00

Did the 3 charged, assult a white male 3 hours later to make it appear they're are not racists to police? What happened between the times of the two assults? Witnesses are needed. Did the 4th man/boy in the dark tank also drive the group of thugs to the scene of the second attack? If so, will he be charged as an accessory by the police?
Why did the RCMP only pickup the orginal copy of the video on t~~he afternoon of~~ Monday, July 13th -- 3 days after the incident.
Why did Courtenay Mayor say his email was flooded Monday morning and then say he was unaware of the attack before he voted on the protocol that same day. I don't know about you, but the first thing I do is check my email the very second I get into my office.
What's the deal with the cheeseburger? Surveillance video or eyewitness account needed from McDonald to verify if Jay Phillips, or associate, bought a cheeseburger from McDonalds before heading to the gym. The 3 charged said publicly, a cheeseburger landed in the bed of the truck. Were police able to recover the alleged cheeseburger?

----------------------------

*UPDATE 11.7.2009* I'm not sure if the police picked the video the morning of the 6th or the afternoon. But i any case it was picked up Monday July 6th, 2009 by the RCMP; which was a day after the video went viral

----------------------------

*response to blog comment*

In regards to question 3 if you visit the city of Courtenay Website there is an explaination from the Mayor on why council voted the way they did. Regardless of the unfortunate timing of this vote being declined, it really is a seperate issue from this most unfortunate and horrific event.
Rhianrider

Rhianrider, you're right, the council's vote on the Critical Incident Protocol is completely separate from the attacks that happened on July 3rd. I’ve known that all along.

But, what I’m trying to do with this blog is to have the City of Courtenay and other higher bodies of Government to acknowledge that racism, like the Valley’s infamous undertoned ignorance towards aboriginals, is a problem in our community. And I think the fact that no one on city council mentioned or acknowledged the attack during their vote at 4pm on Monday, is another sign of council ignoring the problem of cultural ignorance in the Valley.

That's why I mention local government so much in this blog, and asking for their statements. I want them more involved in helping solve this problem. The more that people and organizations, such as municipal governments, talk about these issues, the easier it is to find answers and solutions.

The mayor, Greg Phelps, has been quoted by the Globe and Mail to have said, “I really didn't think we had a big issue, and I still don't … I've lived here most of my life and this is the first incident like this I can recall.” I’ve lived here all my life and racism has always been a problem, even if it’s not apparent to the eyes and ears. I even recalled an incident outside of Jiggers Bar about 9 years ago where, allegedly, a racially motivated fight had one young man’s face scared with a broken beer bottle. In that incident, nothing more was said about the fight publically. It created more hate in the Comox Valley when some facts turned into angry rumors, strengthening and reinforcing more racism already instilled in the ignorant.

I’ve only talked about the City of Courtenay to respond to your comment, but there are other civil organizations, bodies of government, and community groups who should take a more proactive role in stopping racism as soon at it starts. These include school boards, worker’s unions, and local authorities to name a few.

There are active groups in the Comox Valley, such as all the ones who have already signed the protocol, that do everything they can to curb hate, discrimination, sexism, and racism to make the Comox Valley a safe place for everyone to live and work. They can’t do it alone, so I urge the city to take the first step and acknowledge that there does exist an undercurrent of racism in the community. In a small defense to the mayor, he was said on record that, “… you always get a few in every town who are really ignorant" to the Victoria Times Colonist. Which, albeit small, is a partial acknowledgement but is short to mention a problem in the city where he was elected mayor, and also where the burtal swarming took place on July 3rd.

Racism is a circle of hate between people and cultures. The cycle must be stopped and I hope the City of Courtenay, its beautiful citizens, and the RCMP will: 1. Acknowledge a problem exists, 2. Talk, educate, live, and understand cultures other than their own, and 3. Speak up when racism occurs. This may include telling your buddy to stop using a hurtfully racial joke because it’s not funny.

Is it the municipals government responsibility to end racism? Not entirely, they should do the best they can while still being able to deals with other problems such as maintaining roads and sewers. However, it is also one of their mandates to ensure public safety. I don’t expect the city to fund programs or anything, there are groups who promote diversity already and are doing a good job at that; the recent Peace Rally is an example. But my issue is with the mayor, Greg Phelps, who I believe does not give race/culture related social issues enough importance. If he did, he should have gone on record to say that we had an undercurrent of racism that lead to the recent verbal provocation of a black man.

More Discussion on Racism in the Comox Valley on the Keep Courtenay Safe Facebook Group:
http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=100285394590&topic=8971

The Mayor's Message Talks about the Comox Valley Critical Incident Response Protocol:

http://www.city.courtenay.bc.ca/news/critical-incident-response-protocol.aspx

Charges Laid - RCMP PR Claims Second Altercation That Day

2009-07-10T13:38:00.001-07:00

I would like to personally thank Jay Phillips for taking a stand that day for himself, his family, his child, ~~young man also harrased that night,~~ and everyone else who has been bullied, taunted, and harrassed. There comes a point, when after repeated offences, and no change that one person has to put themsleves on the line and fight back. I'm not advocating violence, but instead understanding why Phillips decided to fight back they way he did. Hopefully now that the eathquake has happened, and done some good with awareness, we don't see smaller aftershocks being reported in the Valley.

---------------------------------------

A little more is now known. But they still need witnesses. If anyone was at [the river] ~~a lake~~ (*Retraction: the 3 young men claim they just came back from the river. There are many swimming holes in the Comox Valley*) and saw the red truck in question, please contact police. We need to make the Comox Valley, and this country to be a safe place to live and work. We need to be able to walk the street without being afraid when we see a confederate flag on a truck or displayed on clothing.

No word yet on the Cheeseburger Instigation claimed by the 3, alleged, attackers that was first reported by CTV News.

Now Comox Valley RCMP are saying the three men were also involved in an altercation later that evening with another teenage boy who was afraid to come forward. That second fight, while not racially-motivated, could support evidence that the three were the instigators in the fight against 38-year-old Phillips, Douglas said.

Douglas said the altercation started when the three drove by Phillips in their red pickup truck and yelled a racial slur. Phillips yelled back “F*ck you” and through a water bottle in their direction. They pulled a U-turn and what happens next has been broadcast on YouTube, garnering international attention.

http://www.timescolonist.com/Three+charged+Courtenay+alleged+racial+swarming/1779304/story.html

In a press release RCMP Const. Tammy Douglas said the file is still under investigation and a second altercation took place after the one caught on video, possibly involving the same three men.

http://www.theprovince.com/Three+charged+wake+Courtney+assault/1779344/story.html

Subsequent investigation has now revealed that a second altercation later the same evening took place, and may be related to these same individuals.

This file is still under investigation and anyone who may have information is asked to contact Comox Valley RCMP at (250) 338-1321 or if you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. (8477)

http://bc.rcmp.ca/ViewPage.action?siteNodeId=50&contentId=10379

Courtenay Mayor Will Make Himself more Accessible to the Public

2009-07-10T13:09:00.000-07:00

So he intends to make himself available during the mornings of the first and third Wednesday in each month, starting next Wednesday (July 15).

People will be welcome to drop by in the same way as they do at the mayor's office in Nanaimo and Campbell River, he said.

http://www.canada.com/Mayor+opens+door+concerned+citizens/1778337/story.html

New Video Footage Minutes after the Truck Drives Away

2009-07-10T08:40:00.000-07:00

Hear Phillips talk about the attack mere minutes after the fight. He can be seen visibly shaken and he paces around sliently.

Phillips Stands by Original Claims of Hate

2009-07-10T08:30:00.000-07:00

Phillips stands by his original claims

While Comox Valley RCMP are still considering the evidence with respect to whether or not the incident constitutes a hate crime, Phillips has no doubt.

"I know it was a hate crime," said Phillips. "When you use the word lynch ... and say you're going to kill me and my family? I have a nine-month old boy. That's the wrong thing to say to me."

http://www.canada.com/Victim+recalls+what+happened/1778320/story.html

Dean Stoltz shows Attacker's Letter of Apology to Jay Phillips

2009-07-10T01:38:00.000-07:00

Watch Video Here:
http://www.chtv.com/ch/cheknews/video/index.html?releasePID=K15H_IrJN5TpyRU_xkQziO6gpE_O2onW

On a short segment on Global TV's earily evening news (July 9th), a reference, in the letter, to an alleged thrown cheeseburger was made news by Globle TV. Reporter for CHEK, Dean Stoltz, who earlier that afternoon interviewed the accused attackers, urged Jay to read the letter on his laptop. Jay Phillips, for days, has refused to read the letter until confronted by Stoltz. As Stoltz read out the letter and mentioned the reference to the thrown cheeseburger, Phillips was to quick denounce the Letter of Apology as full of lies. He then asked Stoltz to stop. The letter seemed to have been given to Dean Stoltz in electronic format by the three men. I guess it's an Open Letter of Apology and not personally written for Jay Phillips?

I urge Mr. Stoltz to make public the contents of the letter so we can see why Phillips was so upset by its contents. I question the sincerity of the letter and whether or not it's a sham of an apology. It's a very sensitive time in this case, and right now the Crown counsel is reviewing it to determine if charges should be laid. I also urge the counsel to take a look into the contents of the letters delivered to both Dean Stoltz and Jay Phillips to see if they are identical.

Possible Involvement of Alcohol

2009-07-09T22:20:00.000-07:00

I've been to the lake before, and a lot of swiming, smoking, and drinking happens there. Were any or all of the 3 accused instigators intoxicated during this incident? And it was a Friday night. Was the driver of the truck (nonparticipant in the violence) the only sober guy of the pack?

I suspect there might be more witnesses at Comox Lake who can give accounts of the demeanor of the 3 men hours before the verbal attack?

*UPDATE 11.7.2009* They said in an interview with Dean Stolz from CHEK that they were at the river before the incident. I wrongly heard Lake in the interview

The Accused 3 Defends their Actions and Apologizes to the Public in an Exclusive Interview with Global National

2009-07-09T21:15:00.000-07:00

After watching their exclusive interview with Global Nation, I believe they felt sorry for letting this incident happen the way it did. They apologized to the neighborhood for the debacle that took place and to anyone who was offended by the language that was used. And a welcomed statment for me, they also assured the public's safety by saying they're not after anybody. However slightly contradictory, he goes on to say, “We didn’t attack him because he is africian American,we were just driving the truck, It could have happened to anyone – white or black. We’re not into that crap”

When asked “why the language,” the accused stated they weren’t racists but pissed off. They then defended their use of the N-word by saying it was used to make “him mad because he made [them] mad.” And one male also acknowledged that “it shouldn’t have been said.”

The reporter, Dean Stolz, lead the interviewees into answering, "yep" to how the use of the racial slurs were out of character for them. Earlier in the interview, Stolz, who started his broadcasting career 16 years ago, also lead the boys into answering that their use of the racial slur was just a wrong choice of words. I'm slightly dissapointed at Stolz' use of closed ended questions in this interview. These series of pigeonholed questions helped paint these guys in a good light. Journalists are taught that the use of opened ended questions will give more objective answers and will highlight more of the subject's real feelings.

Reporter, Dean Stoltz from Global, asked one of the accused to take him through what happened. The male in the black sweater began to tell the story starting from their departure of the McDonalds drive-thru:

“we were driving the truck through the McDonalds drive-thru when we turned the corner, I guess Jay is his name is – is with a buddy of his on the corner, drove by, something may have been said, and I see a cheese burger flying through the air. That’s when we turned around -- we turned the truck around, and when we did, I preceded out of the truck to ask him ‘why, what are you throwing at my truck.’ He proceeded to throw his hands in the air and call us all names, slander, say he wanted to fight all 3 of us, he’ll take us all on. I don’t want to say the words that he used but that’s pretty much the gist of it.”

When the Stolz wanted to make clear which side the initial insult came from, one male answered,

“we’re not really sure, we seen the cheeseburger flying through the air. We turned around [the truck] and asked him what the deal was. He wouldn’t even answer us why he threw the cheese burger. He just kind of threw his hands in the air calling us all out… you know.”

Another male answered by chuckling after saying, “I just actually seen a cheese burger lying in the back of the truck.”

Asked if they were disgusted when reflecting back on the video, one male answered, “3 on 1 is definitely bad, we usually fight one on one.” (Video: Statement abruptly cut from segment on CHEK on July 9th) Apparently fighting is something they do often. One of the men accused Jay Phillips as the aggressor by referencing the section of video where Phillips can be seen still charging them after getting back on his feet. But I think it's only human nature, especially with adrenalin, to want to get even with your opponents after being swarmed, taken to the ground, and pummeled.

Stolz also asked them to comment on how the internet initially labeled them White Supremacists. One man replied, "It’s disgusting really, it should never had been said. They should have said ‘[three] male beat up on one male’ you know, something like that. It didn’t have to be labeled white supremacists".

How they were unfairly labeled white supremacists was about the only thing I agreed with them on; unfortunately it was also something I did. Early in this development, rumors were flying around that there was a beating of a black man involving some white supremacists. When I saw the video and heard their use of the N-word with such malice in broad day light so loudly in front of people, I truly believed they were part of a hate group. So that was my fallacious reasoning behind unfairly labeling them white supremacists that day. But again I stress, people should not speculate before all the facts are gathered and released by police.

Watch the full RAW interview: Wait for 2 commercials to play
http://www.globaltv.com/globaltv/national/onlyonline/index.html?releasePID=_e_TSIRFFszeJLTOh8PC8Azj2EFH4yzi

---------------------------------------------

*UPDATE* 10.7.2009 The National Posts and Echo also writes about interview:
http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/posted/archive/2009/07/10/300035.aspx
http://www.canada.com/racists+involved+assault/1778321/story.html

*UPDATE* 10.7.2009 The evening news on CHEK, they used the questionable quoted of the language being "out of character," but had anchor ~~Hudson~~ say it live instead of using a clip from the RAW interview. *retraction: host/anchor of CHEK News unknown*

*UPDATE 11.7.2009* Video has now been removed from CHEK/GlobalTV's online video archive.

*UPDATE 12.7.2009* Rumours around town of hate group symbol on back of Adam Huber's black sweater may indicate rank and affiliation. Not Confirmed.

Courtenay Police Expects Charges to be Laid

2009-07-09T19:33:00.000-07:00

I have a feeling whether charges are laid or not may hinge on eyewitnesses. I urge anyone who knows anything about how this fight was instigated, to share their information with police.

“Charges have not been formally laid yet,” Const. Tammy Douglas said Thursday morning.

They expect charges will be laid soon — and investigators are still finishing their report for Crown counsel, which will make the final decision on charges.

http://www.bclocalnews.com/vancouver_island_north/comoxvalleyrecord/news/50411937.html

Claims of Cheeseburger Instigation by the 3 Accussed Attackers

2009-07-09T19:12:00.001-07:00

The 3 Accused Racist Claims Their Use of the N-word Was Used Only to Incite Anger in Phillips

2009-07-09T18:11:00.000-07:00

In an interview and short segment with Global News at 6PM, all three accused attackers appeared with their identities concealed. They maintain their use of the word N-word, used during the attack, on Jay Phillips was only to incite anger in their target. I guess they think it's okay in that case.

I would like to ask the 3 young men: Do you guys honestly believe it’s acceptable to call someone the N-word in order to get them to fight with you.

I see this all the time with drunk young men in small town bars; groups of smaller guys always trying to start a fight with a bigger guy to prove themselves.

Accused Racist Criticizes Media for Putting His Family in Danger

2009-07-09T18:05:00.001-07:00

Gone are the days of being able to call someone the N-word, to provoke a fight, without putting your family’s safety in danger. This fact was hard to swallow by one of the accused in his interview with CTV. This impromptu interview was conducted while in the middle of his family’s move.

If you think you can call someone the N-word to get their blood boiling and NOT think you're going to put your family's saftey in danger, then you must think you're living in another era!

These young men still don't realize they are the ones reponsible for their actions. Ironically, they’ve taken on the victim mentality instead of helping the public heal from this incident.

I would like to close with saying that people, friends, and family associated with the 3 men, shouldn't be harassed. They never did anything wrong. Instead, they should be outraged at the 3 young men for putting them in that situation.

CTV News caught up with the three on Thursday at a Courtenay residence they said the attention is getting to be too much and they are moving out of town.
"I can't answer, I'm in the middle of moving, my wife and kid are in danger, seriously," one of the men told CTV British Columbia's Lisa Rossington.
http://www.ctvbc.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20090709/BC_courtenay_racism_latest_090709/20090709/?hub=BritishColumbiaHome

Huge Turn Out for Peace Rally + PICTURES!

2009-07-09T14:57:00.000-07:00

I Hope this sends a message that acts, like what happened July 3rd, will not be tolerated in the Valley.

Over 1,000 people turned out Thursday for a rally, planned to speak out against hate and violence in the Comox Valley.

http://www.bclocalnews.com/vancouver_island_north/comoxvalleyrecord/breaking_news/50398132.html

CHECK THE PICTURES ON THE RALLY'SFACEBOOK EVENT PAGE!
http://www.facebook.com/photo_search.php?oid=102275816790&view=all

One of the 3 Men Speaks Out on the Attack

2009-07-09T14:08:00.000-07:00

I think it's good that we're hearing, at lest, one of the accused speaking for his action. If they want this issue to be resolved, they should release a public statement. Explain why things unfolded the way it did, and then provide suggestions to prevent racially motivated attacks/fights in the future.

In my personal opinion, I think the guys were out looking for trouble and they found it. But we won't know for sure unless the air is cleared so that the public can be assured of their safety.

The problem is, we don't know if it's safe to go out at 8PM to grab a burger alone. Is there an underlying hate problem in our community? Should we watch over our shoulder next time we see a confederate flag on a hat or truck?

One of the three men accused said yesterday that the incident has been "blown out of proportion."

"Adam," as he identified himself in a telephone interview with CHEK News yesterday, said that he and the other two men are "not racist and not white supremacists."

He did not comment any further.

http://www.globaltv.com/globaltv/national/Attack+black+triggers+rally+Vancouver+Island+community/1773908/story.html

Attackers Sends Jay Phillips a Letter of Apology

2009-07-09T01:01:00.000-07:00

If this is a sincere act, I think it's a good start to towards understanding each other. However, one summer, when I was 19-years-old, I once stole a garden gnome and my mother made me to go up to the house and apologize to the owner. Sadly I can only remember how much I just wanted it to be over so I can get back home to play Counter-Strike on my computer.

Phillips said Wednesday that one of the three men has since written a letter of apology to him, although he has not yet read it.

http://www.canada.com/news/Community+organizes+anti+racism+rally+over+YouTube+attack/1772305/story.html

CTV Reports Attack Not Motivated by Hate - Rather a Hamburger Attack by Phillips

2009-07-08T23:18:00.000-07:00

What drives a man to throw a hamburger into the cab of a truck full of of 4 guys? Was this hamburger attack unprovoked? If not, what motivated Jay Phillips to forfeit his dinner that night?

CTV NEWS reports the young attacker's friends claim the attack was not an act of hate, but rather retaliation to, 38-year-old, Jay Phillips' attack with a McDonald's hamburger.

It is not yet known if any of the 4 young men riding in the red Ford F150 were hurt by the Hamburger.

However, according to Phillips, the 4 men verbally assaulted him by calling him N****r and telling him that Courtenay was a "white town." But, again, It is also not yet confirmed if that verbal assault is what lead Phillips, who was on his way to the gym, to throw the hamburger into truck (not sure if it landed in the cab or bed of the truck).

New details have emerged about an alleged racist attack in Courtenay, B.C. captured on video. Friends of the suspects charged say the attackers were not motivated by hate.
----------
Phillips says the attackers shouted racial slurs at him before the fight began. Racial slurs can be heard on the video.

But friends of the three accused say the YouTube video doesn't tell the whole story. They told a CTV British Columbia's Lisa Rossington that a cheeseburger was tossed into the truck they were driving before the fight broke out.

http://www.ctvbc.ctv.ca/servlet/an/local/CTVNews/20090708/BC_courtenay_racist_attack_090708/20090708/?hub=BritishColumbiaHome

-----------------------------

*Update* 9.7.2009 I was a bit satirical in my posting of the story above. But I just read an article which, I believe, is more objective in its wording:

Nobody knows yet just what initiated the assault on Phillips. He may have provoked it or it may have been his alleged assailants.

http://www.canada.com/Canadians+must+turn+blind+racism/1774251/story.html

*Update* 10.7.2009 Today CHEK/Global released the full interview with these guys. The guys didn't mention anything about anyone getting hurt by the cheeseburger. Apparently it landed in the bed of the truck. And Maybe... just maybe reporting of the cheeseburger attack is news worthy. However, it's still ridiculous to mention in the press.

*Update 10.7.2009* Just now, the police statment metioned a water bottle being thrown. No word on a cheeseburger.

Objectivity With Ground Roots Bloggers and Viral Videos?

2009-07-08T13:43:00.000-07:00

Okay I must admit I like to sensationalize headlines sometimes; but I've worked in the media for serval years, and headlines are what sells newspapers. I guess I've carried that to my blog as well. After reading this, I think I'll add a small editorial piece when I aggerate news reports. I'll leave the reporting to the reporters and make future YouTube videos as objective as can be.

YouTube recently created a citizen reporters' centre. Proponents say there's something about a story reported by a citizen witnessing news events before their eyes that sends a more powerful message, and it's this type of emotional response that drives action among citizens. However, critics say citizen journalism can lack objectivity.

http://www.news1130.com/news/local/more.jsp?content=20090708_093016_8460

Rally Planned for Thursday at Noon + More Local Leaders Condemns Recent Attacks

2009-07-08T09:32:00.000-07:00

"Racism in any form is reprehensible," said Paul Ives, Comox mayor. "It's unacceptable in any practice and is particularly horrible when racist views manifest themselves in violent behaviour."

Vancouver Island North MP John Duncan also spoke out against the incident.

"The people who did this are the exception and not the rule, but if we as a community do not stand up against this type of action, then this behaviour will continue," said Duncan. "We should not hesitate to speak out against intolerance and violence of any kinds or we will ourselves become victims of it."

http://www.bclocalnews.com/vancouver_island_north/comoxvalleyrecord/news/50230267.html

Jay's Own Account of How it Started

2009-07-08T05:18:00.000-07:00

They were yelling “ ‘we're gonna lynch you, we're gonna kill you, get out of our effing town.' I'd never seen these guys before in my life,” said Mr. Phillips, who describes himself as half-black and half-white.

“So I called back ‘eff you too.' They turned the truck around and got out and surrounded me with their fists up.”

“They were saying ‘this is a white town and you and your whole race aren't welcome here.' ”

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/british-columbia/three-arrested-in-attack-posted-on-youtube/article1210121/

New Video Emerges

2009-07-08T04:34:00.000-07:00

We were able to obtain a higher quality version of the video from a tipster. Although it’s not the original, it might have been an HD video ripped/saved from YouTube.

Earlier videos posted by other users were pulled off YouTube for showing the license plate number of the red truck. The copy we received was specially edited and subtitled to make out the license plate. We’re currently editing the video to protect the innocent and the identities of the attackers.

This might be the highest quality video available as we’re told the RCMP has the only uncompressed version of the attack; and they are not willing to release it.

One of the accused seen covering licence plate

Courtenay Mayor and City Council Voted 3-2 Against a Protocol that would help Fight Hate Crimes 3 Days After Attack.

2009-07-08T01:56:00.000-07:00

According to Gregg Phelps, it was only was a stranged coincidence council voted aginst the protocol days after the attack. In additon, the mayor claims none of the city council member were aware of the attack before the vote took place.

Just five weeks ago, many organizations in the Comox Valley signed on to a protocol to deal with hate crimes at a moving ceremony hosted by former B.C. lieutenant governor Iona Campagnolo.

The only local government not to sign on was the City of Courtenay, whose city hall building is just a few blocks from the site of the attack. Mayor Greg Phelps would not provide specifics about why Courtenay didn’t sign the protocol, but said there was language in the document with which the city is uncomfortable.

http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Comox+RCMP+make+more+arrests+attack+broadcast+YouTube/1768118/story.html

There will be no change of heart by Courtenay City Council about signing the Valley's critical incident response protocol. The city was conspicuous by its official absence when the document - drawn up by the Community Justice Centre - was formally signed by 35 local groups and organizations last month.

http://www.canada.com/Courtenay+still+sign+protocol/1768515/story.html

Aniel Datoo, president of the Community Justice Centre, and Douglas Hillian, a board member, asked councillors to reconsider their spring decision not to sign the protocol.

http://www.bclocalnews.com/vancouver_island_north/comoxvalleyrecord/news/50153372.html

Editorial By Ethan Baron

2009-07-08T00:20:00.000-07:00

Phillips alleged the racist comments began when the truck passed by him, and the video does not capture any such slurs. But police believe witnesses were present who would have heard them.

"We are hoping that some of those eyewitnesses will come forward," Douglas said.

http://www.theprovince.com/news/courage+teaches/1769596/story.html

Transcript of YouTube Video

2009-07-07T22:37:00.000-07:00

Although some of the context is lost when you just read it, a lot can be learned from the language that was used to help people determine, on their own, whether a hate was committed that day.

Our best efforts were used to try to transcribe everything that was said. If you believe there was an error in the transcription, please post in the comments.
----------------------------------------------

0:19 - Get him Mike get him, come'on Mike. [Off camera voice]

0:27 - Get him Mike! [Off camera, audibly louder and angrier]

0:44 - Get him Adam [Unidentified Attacker]

0:45 – Just fuckin' do it Adam [Attacker1 then pats Attacker 2 on back]

0:48 - [Attacker2 throws a punch, no contact]

0:50 - Lets take him down [Unidentified Attacker]

0:55 - Guy in truck, Come'on! [JP]
1:10 - [JP falls to ground and is swarmed by the 3 attackers]

1:19 - Ah get up [Sounds like Attacker1]

1:21 - Come'on and fight you fuckin' Nigger [Unidentified Attacker, JP, however, still defenseless in headlock by Attacker1]

1:22 - [Attackers disperses as bystanders come to help]

2:25 - Ahhh come'on! You're fuckin' dead [JP is heard screaming after getting back on his feet]

2:34 - You're fuckin' killing me.. you fuckin (inaudible).. you're dead.. what the fuck.. come'on [JP]

2:49 - Niggers [Unidentified male]

2:53 - Come'on you fuckin' goons, don't look at me. [JP]

2:55 - Do you want to come with me? I'll take you were you gotta go. [Bystander to JP]

2:57 - Come'on guys lets go [Unidentified Attacker]

2:58 - Good bye nigger. [Attacker 1]

2009-07-07T21:21:00.000-07:00

Inspector Tom Gray of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police said the attack is being treated as an isolated incident at the moment. He said the three suspects do not appear to be part of any organized white supremacist group.

http://www.upi.com/Top_News/2009/07/07/3-charged-in-BC-with-attack-on-black-man/UPI-20491247025062/

2009-07-07T20:02:00.000-07:00

"I don't want this to happen to anybody — anybody," Phillips said. "There's a lot of native people here, a lot of Asian people here. Nobody should have to go through this."

http://www.cbc.ca/canada/british-columbia/story/2009/07/07/bc-courtenay-hate-crime-reaction.html

Mr. Phillips, who escaped with two stitches above his right eye and a couple of bruised ribs, said Tuesday the incident is yet another example of the racism he's battled all his life, despite being a born and raised in B.C.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/british-columbia/three-arrested-in-attack-posted-on-youtube/article1210121/

Offical Statment from the Comox Valley RCMP Detachment

2009-07-07T18:48:00.000-07:00

Thank-you for expressing the sentiments that we share in regards to this incident. This occurrence is uncommon here and unacceptable by any standard as we are a very inclusive community respecting of all peoples.

I wish to assure that the individuals involved will be held to account and charges will be laid as soon as possible.

Thank-you

Comox Valley Detachment
Royal Canadian Mounted Police

New Developments from CTV

2009-07-07T18:05:00.000-07:00

I just realized after watching this CTV segment, these 3 guys not only attacked Jay Phillips but have hurt tens of thosands in BC; even if it was for 5 minutes.

Courtenay mayor, Greg Phelps, was interviewed by CTV News and he promised a stronger protocol to help crub any future attacks. No word yet from other by leaders in surrounding communities.

According to Constable Tammy Douglas, from the RCMP, the last two attackers at large turned themselves in only after realizing that the issue is not going to go away. The suspects are currently charged with standard assult charges, but that may change at sentencing. The BC Hate Crime Team is currently involved.

Currently Charged as a Standard Assult

2009-07-07T17:09:00.000-07:00

"OUR GENERAL INVESTIGATION SECTION HAS BEEN LIASING WITH THE BC HATE CRIME TEAM IN REGARDS TO THIS INCIDENT, BUT, BASICALLY WHAT HAPPENS IS IT'S STILL A STRAIGHT ASSAULT CHARGE. IF IT WAS DEEMED TO BE A HATE CRIME THEN THAT IS SOMETHING THAT WOULD BE IMPOSED UPON SENTENCING."

http://www.cfax1070.com/newsstory.php?newsId=9717

Watch CTV Evening News 6PM Tonight

2009-07-07T17:01:00.000-07:00

They'll be doing a big story I think...

Check your local listings: http://tvguide.sympatico.msn.ca/TVListings

More on the Man Who Decided to Take a Stand Against Hate

2009-07-07T16:53:00.000-07:00

Now 38 years old and the recent victim of an assault police are investigating as a potential hate crime, Phillips is speaking out in hopes his own infant son's upbringing will be in a world far, far different from the one he's experienced.

http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5iWVOGAClrBtAdyzF0fBMmS1-2JtA

All 3 Are Now in Custody

2009-07-07T14:03:00.000-07:00

Three men, age 19, 24 and 25, have now been arrested and face assault charges in what Cst. Tammy Douglas of Comox Valley RCMP said today appears to be a “racially motivated” incident. One of the men had earlier been arrested after the Friday attack.

http://www.timescolonist.com/More+arrested+attack+broadcast+YouTube/1768118/story.html

Local News Finally Reports

2009-07-07T13:56:00.000-07:00

Const. Trevor Busch said members did attend a report of the assault in progress on Friday but at the time, had no leads. When the video was posted though, it changed gears.
http://www.bclocalnews.com/vancouver_island_north/comoxvalleyrecord/news/50153082.html

A-Channel Evening News Report on Attack

2009-07-07T00:42:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow's Frontpage News

2009-07-06T23:15:00.000-07:00

Great Article:

http://www.timescolonist.com/news/fends+racist+attack/1765712/story.html
http://www.theprovince.com/news/Video+leads+arrest+Courtenay+racist+attack/1766013/story.html
"Const. Tammy Douglas said in a news release police are interviewing witnesses to determine the cause of the incident. “Preliminary investigation indicates that there may have been a racial element involved.”

http://www.cbc.ca/canada/british-columbia/story/2009/07/06/bc-courtenay-hate-crime-arrest.html
The men "got out of the truck, surrounded me, still calling me names, threatening me, threatening my family, saying this is our white town and you're not allowed here — stuff like that.

http://www.atv.ca/victoria/news_69334.aspx
RCMP say the file is still under investigation and are asking anyone who has information about the incident to contact Constable Trevor Busch at 250-338-1321 or through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

http://www.vancouversun.com/news/arrested+others+sought+after+racist+attack+caught+video/1765389/story.html
“Police are currently reviewing video evidence and conducting witness inquiries to determine the cause of the incident. Preliminary investigation indicates that there may have been a racial element involved in the incident,” Douglas said in a news release.

http://vancouver.24hrs.ca/News/local/2009/07/07/10046361-sun.html
RCMP have arrested a 20-year-old from the local area and charges of assault are pending. Police are looking for the two other men.

Keep Courtenay Safe

Sentencing of the Trio

Another Similar Story from Across the Country

1st Day of Sentencing

Crown Presents Facebook Photos

Trouble in Campbell River for Huber *UPDATE*

Dates Set for Sentencing

Man in high-profile assault back out on bailComox Valley Echo - August 17th, 2010

Sentencing Delayed

Witness to Camping Cross Burning Downplays Event

Bloggers and Tweeters React to Verdict

Guilty Verdict for 3 Attackers

Read more: http://www.timescolonist.com/Three+Courtenay+guilty+assault+case+with+racial+overtones/3337833/story.html#ixzz0v6HIsCXX

YouTube trio found guilty of assaulting lone man in Courtenay

Guilty verdict for assailants in B.C. assault caught on YouTube

Unearthed Facebook Photos Caught Attention of the CVCJC

Date Set for Judge Peter Doherty's Verdict

Adam Huber Sentenced to 60 Days for Breaking Bail Conditions

Defence stand by claim of mutual engagement

Adam Huber Back In Jail

Adam Huber Breach Bail Conditions Again *UPDATE*

Adam Huber Out on Bail

The Man Who Drove the Trio to Confront Jay Phillips

When is it Okay to Call Someone "Nigger"?

More from the Man Behind the Lense

New Perspective from a Reader

Day 2 of the Trial

Cross Burning in Nova Scotia Terrifies Interracial Couple

David White and Adam Huber Seen with Racist Imagery

David Samuel White Cross Burning

David White Pictured Hanging from a Noose on a Tree

Dog Urged to Attack Jay Philips in YouTube Video

Picture Emerges of Adam Huber After a Fight

Man Sentence to 2 Years for Racial Motivated Attack in Ontario

Date Set for Trial

Trial Confirmation Hearing Date Set

Lawyers of Trio File for New Court Date

Adam Huber Sentence to Six Months for Impaired Driving

Adam Huber to Remain in Jail Until Trail

Adam Huber Caught on Tape Using Homophobic Language

Publication Ban on Adam Huber's Court Records

Video Shows David White Throwing Young Man out of Adam Huber's Truck

New Charges Laid for Adam Huber

Next Court Date Not for Another Year: Aug 2010

3 Men in Courtenay Attack Pleads Not Guilty

Update: Adam Huber "Late" for court, Arrested Same Day

Adam Huber No Show for Court

September Court Date

Adam Huber Caught using Homophobic Language

Trio to Appear in Court Today

2nd Court Appearance Scheduled for Aug 20th

Courtenay Sets Example for Country

City hits back with Protocol alternative

Police Say 3 Men Not Involved in Second Attack

More Reports of Attacks at Courtenay McDonalds

Reasoning and Motive of Second Attack Could be a Ploy to Disguise Hate Attack

A-News / CTV Interviews Mother of Victim of Second Courtenay Hate Attack

New Junk Food Instigation Incident Reported in Vancouver

Great Editoral in Vancouver Sun on Racism in Canada

Keeping Courtenay Safe Blog on the Defense

Mother of Child in Second Attacked, Claims Victim Was Targeted for Being Emo

Insight Into Life of One of the Accused Attackers by Loving Sister

Claims of Clean Criminal Record in CHEK Interview by 3 Men are Questioned

Mother of Victim Claims Racisim is Alive and Well

Adam Huber Refutes Claims of Bigotry

Men Charged Known in the Commuity As Racists and Trouble Makers According to Post

CHEK/GlobalTV 'Their side of the story' Interview, Now Removed from Their Video Archive *UPDATE*

Rampant Accounts of Reverse Racism on Whites, by Aboriginals

Credibility of Statment from Second Victim in Question

This Time Fair Reporting by CHEK on Interview

Questions that Still Need to be Answered

Charges Laid - RCMP PR Claims Second Altercation That Day

Courtenay Mayor Will Make Himself more Accessible to the Public

New Video Footage Minutes after the Truck Drives Away

Phillips Stands by Original Claims of Hate

Dean Stoltz shows Attacker's Letter of Apology to Jay Phillips

Possible Involvement of Alcohol

The Accused 3 Defends their Actions and Apologizes to the Public in an Exclusive Interview with Global National

Courtenay Police Expects Charges to be Laid

Claims of Cheeseburger Instigation by the 3 Accussed Attackers

Trouble in Campbell River for Huber UPDATE

Man in high-profile assault back out on bail
Comox Valley Echo - August 17th, 2010

Adam Huber Breach Bail Conditions Again UPDATE

CHEK/GlobalTV 'Their side of the story' Interview, Now Removed from Their Video Archive UPDATE