On a near record-breaking steamy summer day, those inside an Ottawa courtroom were taken back to the winter of 2022.

Sounds of revving engines, honking horns and chants of ”freedom” were heard as the Crown told the opening of the trial of ”Freedom Convoy” organizers, Tamara Lich and Chris Barber are not on trial for their political beliefs but for the manner used to try and achieve their goal.

The Crown intends to call nearly two dozen witnesses, including former mayor Jim Watson, while showing dozens of videos, photos and letters during the trial that’s expected to last into October.

Presiding Justice Heather Perkins-McVey says given the interest, she asked for the largest courtroom in the Ontario court of justice so as many as possible could watch it.