Ottawa police are issuing a reminder on demonstrations in the nation’s capital.
This comes as officials charge a 65-year-old woman from Hamilton, Ont. with four counts of assault. According to police, the woman was charged following a confrontation on July 20 where hot tea was thrown on demonstrators.
The incident resulted in minor injuries for the victims.
“We ask that all demonstrations in Ottawa remain respectful, peaceful and lawful,” police said in a statement.
Those participating in a demonstration or encounter one should follow the instructions of the officers and allow them space to work, it reads. Disruptive activities by or against demonstrators can lead to charges and arrests.
“If there are immediate safety concerns or complex crowd dynamics, incidents can be flagged to police at the scene and may need to be followed up afterwards. This should not be interpreted as inaction.”
Police want to remind people that processing arrests takes time and information about the person(s) cannot be released at the scene.
“Threats of violence, property destruction, or other unlawful conduct, like obstruction of police, are not protected under the Charter and interfere with police’s ability to focus on public safety of the overall crowd.”