Quote:
Originally Posted by Fire of the Phoenix
The drivers weren't in the wrong, they were asking for a favor. Is this really where we are in Canada in 2015, a couple of white guys ask to travel through a reserve because they were detoured by a fatal accident and they are in the wrong? Really? Are we this sensitive to native issues that we can't see this for what it is?
Also, it's not extortion, they were within their legal rights. However, just because it's their right, it doesn't mean that they weren't being petty.
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I think if someone can provide more details, the picture would be clearer. I am assuming that the road was clearly marked as "Private" and "No trespassing". If that is the case, the driver are wrong to cut through. Not a capital offence or anything, but they don't have the right to cut through. Similarly, if the individuals were collecting right at the turn off, such that turning back is the obvious solution, then perhaps it isn't so bad. My impression is that these guys took it upon themselves to make a few bucks by stopping traffic somewhere in the middle of the reserve. They don't have that right for cash and it is left unsaid what would happen if the drivers refused to pay and refused to turn back. Call the cops; fine. Perhaps threaten the drivers or damage the car? Not fine.
All I am saying is that the situations should have been handled by the proper authorities (reserve police or RCMP) by having a car at the turnoff, turning people away and explaining that it is private land. This situation is vigilante at best, extortion at worst.