Weyburn Police Service members attended a local hotel last week after a report of an altercation between two women. Deputy Chief Shane St. John says one woman reportedly assaulted the other without provocation and refused to exit her room once police arrived.
“She was very agitated when police arrived and did not want to have any contact with the police. The members did make the area safe. They didn't know if she had any weapons or anything. They were able to calm her down and talk her out of her room without incident where she was arrested and charged for that assault.”
St. John explains the importance of police de-escalation techniques, especially for a smaller force like the WPS.
“Especially when you don't have the maybe six, seven, eight people to back you up like you would in a major centre. There are only a few members. You need to use your de-escalation techniques to calm the situation.”
The two women appeared to not know each other, with the motive behind the assault appearing to be related to mental health concerns. St. John says that while this does not change the charges against her, she may be able to get assistance through the court.
“You're still responsible for your actions, but the courts can assist in getting some further assistance for that person. And then that charge, they may not get a criminal record out of this incident if they're getting help for their mental health. If that is found to be the cause of the incident.”