Good news, they just let the guy out on bail. As a resident of a border state, I sure hate to see things deteriorate like this situation. Next time it could be some American stuck in a Canadian jail...
Man jailed for buying gas in U.S. granted bail
cbc.ca
Last Updated Wed, 13 Nov 2002 19:11:53
BANGOR, ME. - A Quebec man who has spent a month in an American jail after crossing the border to buy gas has been granted bail.
Michel Jalbert, 32, was granted $5,000 US bail Wednesday on condition that he not enter the United States except for court proceedings.
But his troubles aren't over.
The Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) has a bond on the Pohénégamook, Que., man. That's a civil matter and a hearing may not be held for two months or longer.
FROM OCT, 30 2002: Quebec man in U.S. jail for cross-border tank-up
Jalbert drove 15 metres across the border into Maine on Oct. 11 to fill up his truck with gas, as is common for local Quebecers seeking cheaper prices.
Jalbert didn't check in with U.S. Customs. U.S. border guards stopped him at the pumps and found him with a hunting rifle.
Jalbert, who has a dated criminal record in Canada, was taken into custody for crossing the border illegally and illegal possession of a firearm.
He has pleaded not guilty to illegally entering the U.S.
U.S. officials have said that Jalbert had been warned previously not to cross the border without stopping at U.S. Customs.
Jalbert's lawyer, Jon Haddow, said the ordeal has caused his client to be lonely and depressed.
No date has been set for a possible civil hearing.
Written by CBC News Online staff |
