â–º Listen Live
â–º Listen Live

Expect a greater focus on face mask bylaw enforcement in Lethbridge say City, Police Chief

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Lethbridge’s Chief of Police says the time for education and awareness, around mandatory face coverings, is over.

While Chief Shahin Mehdizadeh says the LPS respects and will defend the rights of citizens to express their views on the bylaw, its priority is to protect the entire community.

He says the nature of anti-masking protests has elevated in Lethbridge as of late and appropriate actions will be taken when community members are put in harm’s way.

Mehdizadeh says “some individuals, which is a very few minority, don’t agree with these rules for their own reasons. The way I look at it is, they are putting the community at risk and they in fact are infringing on the rights and freedoms of other citizens which is really contradictory.”

He says there are monetary penalties for those who contravene a public health order but criminal charges, including causing a disturbance, may be considered if circumstances warrant.

Mehdizadeh reiterates, it’s not the intention of the LPS to prohibit the actions of those who wish to bring attention to their own particular views and opinions, as long as it’s done in a safe, sensible and respectful manner.

Mayor Chris Spearman says as the Alberta Government heightens restrictions, now is a time to be more vigilant, not less.

He says we are in a very serious and dangerous point of this pandemic and is pleading with residents to be part of the solution.

Tina Karst
Tina Karst
A Lethbridge College alumnus, Tina moved back to the community two years after convocation, in September 2007, to become a member of the CJOC News Team. She started as a weekend reporter/anchor and now serves as Associate News Director. When Tina's not tracking down local news, she's either busy at home with Jordan and their two kids or creating custom macrame pieces for a growing list of clients.
- Advertisement -

cjoc Now playing play

ckbd Now playing play

Related Articles

- Advertisement -

Latest News

MyCityCare collecting backpacks and school supplies for local students

MyCityCare is collecting backpack and school supply donations ahead of the 2025-26 school year.

Taber hosts 2025 Southern Alberta Summer Games

Taber will be bustling with Albertans athletes for the next few days. The community plays host to the 2025 Southern Alberta Summer Games. 

98.1 The Ranch’s Legendary Breakfast

The Ranch's Legendary Breakfast - brought to you by Beltone Hearing Centre highlights all the biggest country music hits from the 60's, 70's, 80's, and 90's.

The Ranch’s 90’s at 9

Brought to you by Meyers Original Food and Feed...

UPDATE: Police locate two men in connection with sexual assault investigation

Police in Lethbridge are asking for help with an ongoing sexual assault investigation. 
- Advertisement -