A North Battleford man has been charged after bear spray was deployed inside a church during a Sunday morning service, injuring approximately 25 people including children.
Chad Weasel, 38, of North Battleford appeared in North Battleford Provincial Court on Monday.
Battlefords RCMP charged Weasel following continued investigation into the May 3 incident at St. Paul’s Anglican Church on 99th Street.
Four counts, assault with a weapon, Section 267(a), Criminal Code;
one count, possession of weapon for dangerous purpose, Section 88(1), Criminal Code;
one count, carrying a concealed weapon, Section 90(1), Criminal Code;
one count, commit a common nuisance, Section 180(1), Criminal Code;
one count, unlawfully obstruct a minister from celebrating religious service, Section 176(1)(a), Criminal code; and one count, mischief, Section 430(4), Criminal Code.
Bear spray was deployed inside the church during a service on the morning of May 3. Officers arrived to find the suspect already being restrained by people inside the building. He was arrested without further incident and bear spray was seized at the scene.
The entire church was evacuated. Approximately 25 people were treated by EMS at the scene, including several children. No other physical injuries were reported.
Battlefords RCMP said the incident was not hate-motivated.
Although charged, Weasel is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Read more: North Battleford church service hit with bear spray
