Local residents who lived through the “Freedom Convoy” will have their day in court, as part of the criminal trial of two of the protest organizers.

Tamara Lich and Chris Barber are on trial for their role in organizing the demonstration against COVID-19 public health measures.

For more than three weeks last year, big rig and huge crowds took over Ottawa’s downtown. Many residents say they felt intimidated and frightened.

Justice Heather Perkins-McVey ruled on Wednesday that the Crown could call local residents as witnesses after the defence asked her to block their testimony.