Full Breakdown
Neighbors Sue Canadian Agencies Over Alleged Trespassing
2/28/2026, 11:05:59 AM
Allegations of Trespassing and Property Damage
Three residents of Edgewood, British Columbia—Alyson Turnbull, Trevor Klug, and Margaret Greba—have filed a civil claim against the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) for alleged trespassing on their property adjacent to Universal Ostrich Farm. The claim, submitted on February 10, 2025, asserts that the agencies unlawfully occupied their 28-acre property from September 22 to November 13, 2025, during a period when the CFIA culled hundreds of ostriches due to an avian flu outbreak.
The plaintiffs contend that the warrant used to enter their property was improperly issued, lacking any factual basis, and that they were not involved in the activities that prompted the warrant. They allege that CFIA and RCMP personnel constructed enclosures and transported contaminated materials across their land without consent, causing significant damage.
Background of the Incident
The conflict arose following the CFIA's actions at Universal Ostrich Farm, which drew national attention due to the culling of ostriches. The plaintiffs claim that the warrant issued for the ostrich farm erroneously included their property, leading to a prolonged occupation that they argue violated their rights. Turnbull described the experience as traumatic, stating that the family had to navigate armed checkpoints to access their own land.
Official Responses
The B.C. RCMP acknowledged receipt of the civil claim but refrained from commenting further, citing the ongoing legal process. The CFIA also confirmed that it would respond to the claim in accordance with the timelines set by the British Columbia Supreme Court. Both agencies emphasized that none of the allegations have been proven in court.
Criticism of Agency Conduct
The plaintiffs have expressed frustration over the conduct of the CFIA and RCMP during the occupation. They allege that their repeated requests to cease operations on their property were met with mockery and disregard. Turnbull recounted feeling unsafe and under constant surveillance, complicating their ability to document the situation. The claim highlights the emotional distress caused by the agencies' actions, with Turnbull stating, “Our sense of safety and privacy were completely shattered.”
What's Next
As the case progresses, the Department of Justice will review the claim, and a formal statement of defense from the RCMP is expected. The plaintiffs are seeking a permanent injunction against the agencies, remediation of their land, and damages as determined by the court.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The warrant used to enter the property was not based upon any disclosed fact and the ongoing occupation of the property was without legal right,” — Alyson Turnbull, Plaintiff
- “We were forced to go through an armed checkpoint just to enter and exit our own property, showing ID, waiting for permission, and dealing with shifting levels of aggression at our own gate,” — Alyson Turnbull, Plaintiff
- “Our sense of safety and privacy were completely shattered, and we are still distraught that our land was used to facilitate something so horrific.” — Alyson Turnbull, Plaintiff
This civil claim raises significant questions about the legal boundaries of agency actions and the protection of private property rights in Canada.
