A Saskatchewan man who took his daughter to avoid receiving a COVID-19 vaccine has had his appeal dismissed by the court. Michael Gordon Jackson, who was seen outside the Court of King's Bench on April 6, 2026, had challenged the earlier ruling that found him in contempt of a court order regarding his daughter's vaccination.
Background of the case
Jackson was originally ordered to ensure his daughter received the COVID-19 vaccine as part of a custody arrangement. Instead, he took her and went into hiding, leading to a legal battle. The court found that his actions were a deliberate violation of the order, prioritizing his personal beliefs over the child's health and well-being.
Appeal dismissed
The appeal court upheld the earlier decision, stating that Jackson failed to provide sufficient grounds for overturning the contempt finding. The judges emphasized that the child's best interests were paramount and that Jackson's conduct was unacceptable.
Legal experts note that this case underscores the ongoing tensions between parental rights and public health measures during the pandemic. The ruling reaffirms that court orders related to child welfare must be followed.
Jackson's legal team has not indicated whether they plan to seek further appeal. Meanwhile, child welfare authorities have been involved to ensure the daughter's vaccination status is addressed.
