Hamilton anarchist organizer denied bail in Locke Street vandalism case

The only person to be arrested and charged so far in connection to the Locke Street vandalism investigation has been denied bail.

Supporters of 31-year-old Cedar Hopperton shed tears and embraced one another following the decision in Hamilton court on Tuesday.

The decision follows a lengthy hearing, made longer by delays due to a busy docket.

READ MORE: Hamilton resident arrested in Locke Street vandalism case

Hopperton, legally known as Peter Hopperton, faces a charge of conspiracy to commit an indictable offence and has been in custody since Friday.

Counsel for the accused, Angela Ruffo, declined to comment on the outcome of the bail hearing.

At a press conference last Friday, Hamilton police identified Hopperton as the operator of The Tower, a Hamilton anarchist collective said to have organized an anarchist book fair that occurred on the weekend Locke Street businesses were met with mob vandalism.

READ MORE: Hamilton anarchist group denies involvement but has ‘zero tears to shed’ for Locke Street

On the night of March 3, about 30 people were spotted marching in all black with their faces covered and carrying a banner that read, “We Are The Ungovernable.”

The group eventually dispersed after damaging several storefronts and vehicles, setting off fireworks and throwing rocks. At the time, police estimated the damage at $100,000.

WATCH: Hamilton police linking vandalism by mob to weekend anarchist book fair

At Friday’s press conference, investigators could not say whether police believed Hopperton was present during the incident.

“We believe that [Hopperton] obviously was taking part in the incident,” Hamilton deputy police chief Dan Kinsella said at the time. “Further evidence on the exact details of what that part played will be put forth in evidence before the courts.”

Hopperton’s next court appearance, in person, is scheduled for April 24.

With files from Kerri Breen