The Thunder Bay Police Service became aware last week of a potential large gathering being organized to take place in the city despite provincial emergency orders prohibiting such activities.
The gathering was organized by a group that was staging similar events at various cities amid a cross-country tour. Following an investigation, police determined the organized gathering, which took place in the evening of Tuesday, April 27, was in violation of the province’s current Stay at Home Order.
Two event organizers -- one person from Thunder Bay and one person from British Columbia -- were charged under the province's Emergency Management And Civil Protection Act.
A 37-year-old King City man was charged with Breach of Undertaking and charged under the Emergency Management And Civil Protection Act. He was arrested following Tuesday evening's gathering and released with a future court date.
We all have obligations regarding the provincial orders. We will enforce when situations dictate, such as incidents where there has been a blatant disregard of the province’s emergency orders.
In most other cases, the members of the Thunder Bay Police Service will continue to focus on the 4 E’s:
• Engage (with the individuals)
• Explain (why we are there)
• Educate (on the rules and regulations)
• Enforce (as a last resort)
We will continue to work with our public health partners to ensure the orders are followed.