RCMP say there is no imminent threat to the public following a firearms seizure and hate-related charge connected to threats against identifiable groups in Lloydminster earlier this month.
In a written response to questions from The Border Pulse, K Division Public Information Officer Cpl. Mat Howell confirmed that the accused remains before the courts and that police would notify the community if new safety concerns were identified.
“At this time, Lloydminster RCMP can confirm that there is no known risk to public safety arising from this incident,” the statement read. “As with any active investigation, officers continue to assess all available information, and if any additional public safety concerns were identified, we would communicate that promptly.”
The Dec. 2 operation saw investigators seize multiple firearms, ammunition and extremist material from a Lloydminster home. Police charged John Charles Reid, of Lloydminster, with unauthorized possession of firearms, unsafe storage of firearms and willful promotion of hatred.
Howell would not say whether other individuals are involved, citing an ongoing investigation, but stated they have “no information at this time to suggest an imminent threat to the public.”
A rare charge:
Charges for willful promotion of hatred are rare in Canada. While police investigate thousands of hate-motivated incidents every year, only a small number result in a charge under section 319(2) of the Criminal Code. The offence requires the consent of the Attorney General and prosecutors must prove that the accused intended to encourage others to hate an identifiable group, a strict legal threshold that limits how often it is used.
Because of those requirements, most hate-motivated cases are prosecuted under other offences, such as threats, mischief or assault, with hate considered as an aggravating factor at sentencing rather than a standalone charge.
“Our priority is always the safety of the community, and we remain committed to conducting a thorough and responsible investigation,” stated Howell.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Lloydminster RCMP or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
Read more: RCMP seize guns after threats targeting identifiable groups
