On Sept. 20, 2020, Red Deer RCMP attended a scheduled anti-racism demonstration at Rotary Recreation Park. As demonstrators were setting up for the event and prior to RCMP arriving for their planned attendance, a disturbance occurred between two separate demonstration groups, resulting in one male allegedly assaulting another. This incident was caught on video prior to Red Deer RCMP members arriving on scene and was shown to officers by those on scene.
Red Deer RCMP were aware of the planned demonstration and had prepared to have adequate resources and specially equipped officers at the event to handle any potential risks to public safety. After arriving on scene, members became aware of the alleged assault, were able to de-escalate the situation between the two groups and spoke with the victim.
A second incident was brought to the Alberta RCMP's attention via social media on Sept. 21, 2020, and as a result, Red Deer RCMP opened an investigation that is being handled by Red Deer RCMP GIS. We are asking any witnesses to this incident to come forward with any information and contact Red Deer RCMP GIS at 403-406-2300.
"The Red Deer RCMP take this matter very seriously," says Superintendent Gerald Grobmeier, Officer in Charge of Red Deer RCMP. "The role of the RCMP at demonstrations is to keep the peace and allow individuals their democratic right to gather. The matter remains under investigation."
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