CHAT News file photo

By Teagan Rasche

Police continuing to start with education in new round of COVID restrictions

Sep 21, 2021 | 3:42 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – The Restrictions Exemption Program has forced many businesses to either comply or close down.

As a result, Medicine Hat Police Service says they have already had reports of people taking their frustrations out on businesses. On Monday, businesses told CHAT News about people yelling at owners and staff and threatening lawsuits.

Insp. Brent Secondiak says the police’s role throughout the pandemic is to educate people on the rules and gain compliance through conversation. Officers will continue to do that with the Restrictions Exemption Program now in place.

Secondiak says it’s Alberta Health Services’ responsibility to respond to business complaints and police will be called if the customer is causing a disturbance or refusing to leave the premises.

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Adopt-A-Rink program still seeking volunteers

15h ago

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner

Dec 06, 2024

IN THE COMMUNITY

CHAT News producer makes 'emotional' return to Medicine Hat's old arena

Dec 06, 2024

As vaccine passports become part of daily life, Secondiak advises people not to change health records.

“If someone modifies a vaccine record or created a fake document and used that document, there would be a criminal offence of uttering a forged document,” Secondiak said. “So again, don’t modify, alter or make a fraudulent document because there would be criminal consequences to that.”

Secondiak understands the new orders are complex and asks the public to show understanding, patience and respect to business owners.