[jeffc]

The article does not mention who specifically brought up the charges ("City of Pickering" is too vague). Was it complaining neighbors? Maybe there is too much "junk" laying around in his yard and makes it an eyesore.
Still, to bring charges agains him, and threatening him with fines, is way too severe. If there is an "eyesore", just have him clean it up, and keep everything nice and tidy; don't threaten an old man doing good deeds with fines and jail.
Another thoughth . . . maybe the person who complained owns a small engine fix-it shop, and his business is being hurt by Mr. Tennett.

[Squawk 8888]

When it comes to this type of enforcement, the complaints usually come from business interests looking to the government to throttle any form of competition.