CORNWALL – A Cornwall Island man has been sentenced to 75 days in jail and fined over $2,000 for running the CBSA checkpoint last fall.
Franklin Roundpoint was found guilty of evading compliance and mischief under $5,000 for the broken border gates during a court appearance two weeks ago, the Canada Border Services Agency announced Wednesday.
Roundpoint had been referred to secondary inspection during a trip from Cornwall Island into the city in October 2016.
He fled and damaged a port runner gate as well as a toll booth gate, as headed back to the island, the CBSA said.
“This jail sentence and fine sends an important message that running the port of entry is not taken lightly by the courts. Port running is extremely dangerous and puts many people at risk of serious injury. Port runners will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” said Jeff Davidson, director of enforcement and intelligence operations.
This type of case has drawn the attention of one Cornwall judge.
Last month, Justice Gilles Renaud noted the apparent escalation in tension between Akwesasne and the CBSA and felt it might be time for a “sentencing circle” with all stakeholders.