Two arrests in demonstration-related investigations

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, February 1, 2022  8:45pm

(Ottawa) – Today, the Ottawa Police Service arrested and charged Matthew DORKEN, 29 year old, of Ottawa, with Mischief under $5000. On January 29^th, a man caused mischief to property. He was not arrested at the time in order to avoid a larger confrontation.

On January 30^th, Andre J LACASSE, 37 year old, of Ottawa, was charged with Carry a Weapon to a Public Meeting under the Criminal Code of Canada.

With respect to the demonstration, the Ottawa Police is reporting:

• 13 active investigations;
• Eight complaints to our hotline, three of which will be investigated by our Hate and Bias Crime Unit;
• Two men charged with criminal offences;
• Some progression in the investigation into the desecration of the War Monument;
• A reduction in demonstrators - 50 people on Parliament Hill and another 200 people are gathered nearby.

We want to be very clear, both for the current demonstrations and any planned demonstrations: Illegal activity will not be tolerated.

There will be consequences for anyone contravening City By-laws, Highway Traffic Act and Criminal Code legislation. 

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