The individual self-proclaimed as the “Queen of Canada” received bail on Monday morning and was instructed to remain in Regina until the trial. Romana Didulo, who appeared in court in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, was provided with specific conditions to adhere to, failure to comply with which would result in her return to jail.
Among the conditions imposed on her are staying away from Richmound, Saskatchewan, where her cult has resided for the past two years, refraining from contacting certain individuals including Ricky Manz, the owner of the former school where the cult resided, and prohibiting the possession of weapons. Didulo has chosen to opt for a jury trial with a preliminary inquiry and is set to appear in court again on September 17.
Supporters, including a dozen individuals in white hats, gathered to welcome Didulo as she returned to court in Swift Current for her bail hearing after spending the weekend in custody. In her statement to the media, she asserted, “For the team, secure the royal puppies and the funds, you know who to get ahold of,” emphasizing her belief in lacking jurisdiction.
Mayor Brad Miller of Richmound expressed relief at the arrests of Didulo and her supporter, Ricky Manz, seeing it as positive news for the village. He mentioned the challenges faced by the community due to the cult’s presence over the past two years, including disruptions and tax-related issues.
The Crown prosecutor, Curtis Wiebe, indicated that the court process concerning Didulo could extend over a year, stressing the importance of ensuring compliance with court-ordered conditions. He acknowledged Didulo’s self-identification as a sovereign citizen, posing potential challenges in ensuring adherence to legal directives.
Didulo and Manz were part of a group of 16 individuals arrested by the RCMP following a raid on the cult’s compound. The arrests came after reports of firearms within the compound, leading to the seizure of imitation handguns and electronic devices by the police.
Furthermore, the former school where the cult resided has been deemed uninhabitable by the Saskatchewan Health Authority, resulting in an eviction order due to health and safety concerns. Additional charges are expected to be laid against three more individuals in connection with the investigation.
The situation surrounding the “Queen of Canada” and her followers has sparked division and controversy within the community, with ongoing legal proceedings and public safety issues being addressed.