St. Patrick’s Day WRPS Results for 2022

St. Patrick’s Day WRPS Results for 2022

Waterloo Region, Ontario – On March 17, 2022, the Waterloo Regional Police Service, along with community partners, were deployed to the University District in Waterloo in relation to an unsanctioned St. Patrick’s Day street gathering.

Between 8 a.m. on March 17, 2022, and 6 a.m. on March 18, 2022,  WRPS responded to an estimated 328 calls for service, resulting in 147 charges and 19 arrests.

The Criminal Code charges include Assault, Obstruct Peace Officer, Unauthorized Possession of a Weapon, Assault with a Weapon, Assault Peace Officer, Forcible Entry, Impaired Operation, Possession of Identity Documents and Mischief.

“Large gatherings pose both a health and safety risk to those in attendance and to the entire community,” said Bryan Larkin, Chief of Police. “We are disappointed that, despite encouraging individuals to celebrate responsibly in smaller gatherings or licenced establishments, many opted to gather on the street, forcing road closures.  As we move forward, we will continue to work together with our community partners to find alternatives to this unlawful gathering.”

From 6 a.m. on March 18, 2022, to 6 a.m. on March 20, 2022, an additional 224 calls for service were received, resulting in 46 charges and three arrests.

The Criminal Code Charges include Assault, Mischief and Fail to Provide a Breath Sample.

The Waterloo Regional Police Service would like to thank all community partners who worked together ensure public safety during this unlawful event. This includes the City of Waterloo, The Region of Waterloo Paramedic Services, Waterloo Fire Rescue Service, Wilfrid Laurier University, the Wilfrid Laurier University Student’s Union, the University of Waterloo and the University of Waterloo Federation of Students.