Lethbridge Police say a further investigation into the hostage situation on July 14 determined the airsoft handgun used met the definition of a firearm, based on its velocity. The original charges to Courtney Shaw have been amended to include a firearms charge, rather than an imitation weapon, police say.
Shaw faces charges of attempted murder, aggravated assault, taking a hostage, assault with a weapon (knife), two counts of possession of a weapon dangerous to the public, four counts each of unlawful confinement, uttering threats, pointing a firearm and assault with a weapon (firearm).
The charges stem from an incidents where a hostage was taken inside the Lethbridge Legal Guidance office last month.
BACKGROUND: Attempted murder charges laid in connection to downtown hostage situation
After asking to speak to a specific lawyer, the suspect confined one woman into an office. The woman sustained major injuries and has since been released from hospital.
Shaw’s next scheduled court appearance is Sept. 1, 2022.