Can disagreement on Twitter put you in jail? Canada court ponders

A case of criminal harassment in Canada is set to have a huge impact on the future of free speech online, as Greg Elliott could face six months in prison for disagreeing with feminists on Twitter.

The 54-year-old is facing criminal harassment charges for opposing a campaign by activists Steph Guthrie and Heather Reilly in 2012 against a young man who created an online video game allowing players to simulate punching feminist blogger Anita Sarkeesian in the face.

Elliott used Twitter to urge the women to call off the campaign, which he felt was just as offensive as the video game, as the repercussions against the boy could cause damage to his future.

The women claimed Elliot's refusal to advocate their campaign was grounds for criminal harassment, under Canada's anti-harassment laws. Elliot was arrested and fired from his job as a graphic designer. He reportedly knew the women prior to the incident and was on good terms with them. He even designed a poster for  another campaign they were running.

Ontario Court Judge Brent Knazan is expected to rule on the case on October 6, after hearing closing submissions on Tuesday from Chris Murphy, who represents Elliott.

If convicted, this means prison time for Elliot and create grounds for more such cases.