Calgary, AB,
16
May
2021
|
16:39
America/Denver

Another arrest made in relation to AHS injunction

The following release issued on behalf of the Calgary Police Service and Alberta Health Services

Another arrest made in relation to AHS injunction

Today, police arrested an organizer of a church service who was found to be violating a Court of Queen’s Bench Order.

Pastor Tim STEPHENS was arrested this afternoon for organizing a church service that was held today at Fairview Baptist Church, located at 230 78 Ave. S.E., that did not comply with public health orders, including masking, physical distancing and attendance limits. Police did not enter the church during today’s service.

CPS has received repeated calls from concerned citizens regarding church services held at Fairview Baptist Church over the past several weeks. Last weekend, Pastor STEPHENS was proactively served a copy of the Court of Queen's Bench Order obtained by AHS. 

The Pastor acknowledged the injunction, but chose to move forward with today’s service, ignoring requirements for social distancing, mask wearing and reduced capacity limits for attendees.

For several weeks, AHS has attempted to work collaboratively with leadership at Fairview Baptist Church to address the ongoing public health concerns at the site. It is only when significant risk is identified or continued non-compliance is noted that AHS resorts to enforcement action.

AHS strongly encourages all Albertans to follow public health orders to help minimize spread and protect others. 

Once again, CPS acknowledges it is important to understand that law enforcement recognizes people's desire to participate in faith-based gatherings as well as the right to protest. However, as we are still in a global pandemic, we all must comply with public health orders in order to ensure everyone's safety and wellbeing.

We continue to ask those who may be considering organizing or participating in any outdoor events to ensure they are familiar with public health order requirements and to do their part to prevent further spread of the virus.