The Barrie Police Service and the City of Barrie are aware of another gathering being planned for this Saturday May 8, 2021, similar to the recent weekend protests at Meridian Place and Centennial Park.
The event being advertised is expected to occur at the Sadlon Arena parking lot along Bayview Drive between noon and 4:00 p.m.
The Barrie Police Service and the City of Barrie do not support or permit these gatherings, as they are in contravention of provincial law. The stay-at-home order does not allow you to leave your home for the purpose of attending this event, nor are gatherings with people outside of your household permitted under the provincewide shutdown.
Anyone that attends this unlawful and irresponsible event may face fines and/or court dates with a provincial offence notice being served at the time of the event or up to 30 days after the date of the offence.
During the event, the Barrie Police Service will focus on crowd control management, and policing efforts may shift from enforcement of provincial legislation to reducing harm to the community by ensuring the gathering remains peaceful. This is a standard practice for police throughout Ontario when large crowds gather. Police will attend and monitor the event to prevent crime such as assaults, mischiefs, and threats.
The Sadlon Arena parking lot will not be fenced off as this location will likely have the least negative impact on our community compared to other areas within Barrie.
“Do not attend unlawful gatherings. There are safer ways to voice your opinions without breaking the law and increasing the risk of spreading the COVID-19 virus” states Police Chief Kimberley Greenwood, “Following the advice of public health officials and compliance with COVID-19 related laws are everyone’s responsibility to reduce harm and stop the spread. Thank you to our community who are doing their part to end the pandemic as safely and as quickly as possible.”
Please see the attached link for a message from Chief Greenwood:
| Prepared by: | Corporate Communications |