In a Windsor courtroom, federal prosecutors have called for a three-year penitentiary sentence for a local man convicted of participating in the activities of a terrorist group, arguing his actions were designed to "sow fear" within the community. The Crown's request comes as the defendant, Seth Bertrand, expressed deep remorse for his past involvement with a banned neo-Nazi organization.
Defendant Expresses Regret and Apology
Seth Bertrand, now 23 years old, stood before Superior Court Justice Maria Carroccia during a sentencing hearing on Monday, March 9, 2026, and stated, "I regret everything. I deeply apologize for the fear I may have spread and the people I have hurt." Bertrand was 18 years old when he submitted an online membership application to Atomwaffen Division, a group banned in Canada and other countries as a terrorist entity.
In his application, Bertrand reportedly pledged to do "anything" to assist in a "holy war" aimed at transforming Canada into a homeland exclusively for white people. He specifically mentioned targeting Black, Jewish, and gay individuals as part of this extremist agenda.
Crown Argues for Severe Penalty
Federal prosecutor Xenia Proestos described Bertrand as "a committed white supremacist" whose terrorism offence represents "an existential threat" to both the local community and Canadian society at large. The Crown is seeking a three-year term of incarceration following Bertrand's conviction on the charge of "participation in activity of terrorist group."
Justice Carroccia found Bertrand guilty in August after a lengthy trial, determining that he had offered his "skill and expertise" to a violent, extremist white-supremacy group officially listed as a terrorist entity in Canada.
Defence Seeks Alternative Sentencing
In contrast to the Crown's position, Bertrand's defence lawyers are advocating for a suspended sentence coupled with a three-year probation period. Defence co-counsel Gabrielle Gibbs proposed ongoing supervision and a rehabilitation plan developed by a psychologist, which would include monitoring of Bertrand's social and online activities.
Gibbs argued that while terrorism constitutes a serious crime and "Mr. Bertrand committed a serious offence," his actions occurred during a "period of extreme immaturity." She noted that Bertrand experienced "heightened social isolation" during the COVID-19 pandemic and, in his search for identity and belonging, became "susceptible to radicalization."
The defence emphasized that Bertrand undertook "no operational activity"—he was not involved in recruitment efforts, resource provision, or coordination with the outlawed group.
Legal Proceedings and Community Impact
The sentencing hearing has drawn significant attention due to the rarity of terrorism-related convictions in Canadian courts. The case highlights ongoing concerns about extremist ideologies and their potential to threaten social cohesion.
As the court deliberates on the appropriate sentence, the proceedings underscore the balance between punitive measures and rehabilitative approaches in addressing terrorism offences. The outcome will set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, particularly involving young adults influenced by extremist propaganda during times of personal crisis.
The judge's decision is pending, with both sides having presented their arguments regarding the appropriate consequences for Bertrand's actions and his expressed remorse.
