Pepper spray for self-defence proposal criticized by Alberta police chiefs
Alberta police chiefs are against the Alberta justice minister's proposal to allow pepper spray for self-defence.
The Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police (AACP) said in a joint statement that while they agree action needs to be taken in order to properly address hate crimes, allowing individuals to carry pepper spray could lead to “unintended consequences.”
Kaycee Madu, Alberta’s justice minister, penned a letter to two federal government ministers to stop hate crimes from happening. In it, he made two proposals, including amending the Criminal Code so people could carry and use pepper spray in self-defence.
“I suggest consideration be given to allowing individuals, including vulnerable persons, to carry capsaicin spray, commonly known as 'pepper spray,' for self-defence,” Madu said in the letter.
The letter was sent to David Lametti, federal justice minister and attorney general, and Bill Blair, public safety and emergency preparedness minister.
“Pepper spray would again be helpful in allowing personal defence when absolutely needed.”
Madu tweeted the full letter on Wednesday, saying “Albertans need to be able to defend themselves.”
Pepper spray is prohibited under the Criminal Code, along with any device designed to injure, immobilize, or incapacitate, like tear gas, mace, or other liquid sprays.
“It is sadly ironic that a vulnerable person carrying pepper spray for self-defence could quite possible receive a longer sentence than her attacker,” Madu said.
The AACP said it “wholeheartedly” supports a “tough stance” on hate crimes but was not sure allowing pepper spray was the correct solution.
“This includes the potential risk that an increase in individuals carrying pepper spray could also lead to an increase in use for criminal purposes, as well as the potential for it to be used in crimes against the vulnerable members of the community that this proposal is intended to protect,” the police chiefs association said.
Chief Dale McFee, EPS police chief, said at Thursday’s Edmonton Police Commission meeting that he would like to see more details about the minister’s proposal and how pepper spray distribution would be controlled.
“Certainly there’s some concerns around safety and distribution and I’m not sure if that’s been talked about at this point in time,” McFee said. “Basically, how distribution will be controlled and preventions of keeping spray from getting into the wrong hands are obviously going to be of concern.”
MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCES FOR HATE CRIMES PROPOSED
The second suggestion proposed by Madu in the letter was creating mandatory minimum sentences for hate-motivated crimes.
“Hate-motivated crimes deserve special consideration under legislation due to the pervasive effect they have on faith and minority communities,” Madu said.
“Albertans need to know that when justice is brought upon those found responsible for a hate-motivated crime, perpetrators will be truly punished without the leniency that has been seen of late.”
For Madu, the two suggested options would “have a deterrent effect” on hate crimes and send a “strong message” that such attacks are “inexcusable in Canada.”
The AACP said hate crimes are “absolutely intolerable.” The association said it would reach out to Madu to get further “clarification” about his proposed solutions.
“We would like to find out more about the proposals and explore the benefits as well as any possible unintended consequences,” the association added. “We appreciate his strong resolve aimed at protecting individuals and communities impacted by these deplorable acts.”
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.