WAIMEA — A man involved in Freedom Ride 2016 was found guilty of a charge stemming from that day and acquitted of contempt of court after a dizzying web of linguistic, legal and emotional arguments.
William Gilroy, 62, of Ocean View was one of the people driving a vehicle during the Jan. 2 event. Instead of license plates, he had “Private Property” signs, which led police to pull him over. He was cited for driving without insurance. After that, Gilroy missed a March court date and was charged with contempt of court.
Gilroy and other “Freedom Riders” claim the Constitutional “right to travel” means they do not need driver’s licenses, registration, license plates, safety stickers and motor vehicle insurance. Gilroy also does not acknowledge the authority of the court.
Following a four-hour bench trial Thursday, District Court Judge Peter Bresciani found Gilroy guilty of failing to have vehicle insurance and not guilty of contempt of court. He was sentenced to pay $547 in fines and fees.
Bresciani at one point during the proceedings expressed concern since Gilroy was not acknowledging his right to counsel and the risks of self-representation that there might be a legal issue.
After speaking with Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Britt Bailey and Gilroy, he ruled.
“It was apparent to the court, earlier, that Mr. Gilroy understands the questions being asked of him,” Bresciani said.
After three hours, Gilroy finally took the stand.
“Although I don’t have to have insurance, my insurance covers all my vehicles,” he said as to the citation.
Bailey said while she received the information the day of the trial, it did not appear to cover the vehicle in which Gilroy was pulled over in January. She asked for a recess to confirm the information with the insurer.
The insurance company said the Mercury was insured previously but was not on the policy at the time Gilroy was pulled over. Gilroy stated he was told he was covered.
Email Graham Milldrum at gmilldrum@westhawaiitoday.com.
