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QuickQuotes on Alexandre Bissonnette’s guilty pleas

QUEBEC – A judge on Wednesday accepted Alexandre Bissonnette’s guilty pleas to six charges of first-degree murder and six of attempted murder in connection with the shooting at a Quebec City mosque in January 2017. Some quotes:

“That he’s not a terrorist — those are his claims.” — Boufeldja Benamdallah, president of the mosque where the killings occurred, talking about Bissonnette’s comment he is not a terrorist.

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“You saw the people (in the courtroom). They were still very affected. Many of them were crying. People are still in shock.” — Benamdallah.

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“It is clear that Mr. Bissonnette was a troubled young man. (He) decided to set aside some elements and take full responsibility for his actions. Several factors were taken into account in the decision but the most important one was his respect for the victims, considering his sincere regrets.” — Charles-Olivier Gosselin, one of Bissonnette’s lawyers.

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“We hope with all our heart that that Alexandre Bissonnette’s guilt will allow survivors to feel a sense of justice and to soothe their suffering.” — Thomas Jacques, one of the Crown prosecutors.

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“When you lose a partner, you don’t forget that from one day to the next.” — Quebec City Mayor Regis Labeaume, who was a staunch supporter of the city’s Muslim community in the aftermath of the tragedy.

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“Our hope is that today’s admission of guilt will provide the families of the victims and the survivors some sense of comfort and closure as they continue their healing journey.” — Ihsaan Gardee, executive director of the National Council of Canadian Muslims.

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