Calgary Street Pastor Loses Bid for New Trial
A Calgary street church pastor who made headlines for disrupting a family event at a public library has been denied his application for a new trial. The decision marks another legal setback for Derek Reimer, who was originally charged following an incident at Seton Library in February 2023.
The Library Incident That Sparked Controversy
The case stems from events that unfolded on February 25, 2023, when Reimer, identified as a street church pastor, was removed from Seton Library during a family-friendly Reading with Royalty event. According to court documents, Reimer disrupted the programming, leading to his removal from the premises and subsequent criminal charges.
The Reading with Royalty program, which features drag performers reading books to children, has been both celebrated and controversial in various communities across Canada. The Calgary incident gained significant attention locally and sparked discussions about free speech, public space usage, and LGBTQ+ inclusion in community programming.
Legal Process and Recent Development
Reimer's legal team had filed an application seeking a new trial, arguing procedural issues or errors in the original proceedings. However, in a decision rendered in early November 2025, the court denied this application, allowing the original conviction and sentencing to stand.
The denial of a new trial represents a significant moment in the ongoing legal saga, which has stretched over nearly two years since the initial incident occurred. Court records indicate the application was formally denied on November 7, 2025, though the specific legal grounds for the denial weren't immediately detailed in public court summaries.
The case has drawn attention to the boundaries between protest rights and public disturbance in Calgary, particularly in spaces intended for family programming. Library officials have previously emphasized their commitment to providing inclusive programming while maintaining safe environments for all patrons.
As the legal process continues to unfold, community members on both sides of the issue continue to monitor developments. The denial of a new trial suggests the original court's findings will stand, bringing some closure to an incident that highlighted deep community divisions over programming choices in public spaces.
