Police report youth charged in bear spray attacks in OCN

A male youth is facing multiple charges after a series of bear spray incidents occurred in Opaskwayak Cree Nation, as reported by the Manitoba First Nations Police Service. The incidents took place on a single Saturday, where individuals were injured due to exposure to bear spray. The first incident occurred around 8:30 p.m. at a residence, where a group of males discharged bear spray inside, resulting in multiple victims needing medical attention. Despite the arrival of police and EMS, the suspects were not located.

Two hours later, another incident occurred at the Gordon Lathlin Arena during the annual Canuck Fair. Once again, multiple victims were found to have been bear sprayed, with no suspects in sight. It wasn’t until early Sunday that police apprehended a youth suspect related to the incidents. The suspect is currently in custody and is scheduled to appear in court at a later date. The male youth is facing charges for unauthorized possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, administering a noxious substance, mischief under $5,000, and failing to comply with a sentence or disposition. Additionally, the youth had an outstanding warrant for failing to comply with release order conditions.

Due to the Youth Criminal Justice Act, the identity of the accused youth cannot be disclosed. The Manitoba First Nations Police Service is urging anyone with information about the incidents to contact the MFNPS Opaskwayak Cree Nation Detachment at 204-623-8200 or the MFNPS TIPS line anonymously at 1-833-978-0048. Tips can also be emailed to TIPS@mfnp.ca. The MFNP TIPS line operates 24/7, 365 days a year, and is regularly monitored for any new information that may aid in the investigation.

Incidents involving bear spray can have serious consequences, as seen in the cases reported in Opaskwayak Cree Nation. The use of bear spray in a malicious manner can result in harm to unsuspecting victims who are exposed to the noxious substance. The fact that multiple individuals were affected in two separate incidents highlights the need for swift action to catch and hold accountable those responsible for such dangerous behavior.

The arrest of the youth suspect in connection to the bear spray incidents is a step towards justice for the victims involved. The charges laid against the suspect encompass a range of offenses that reflect the seriousness of the situation. It is crucial for the community and law enforcement to work together to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future, as the safety and well-being of all residents in Opaskwayak Cree Nation are of utmost importance. By reporting any information that may aid in the investigation, individuals can help ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.