**** HRP Media Release
On the 22nd of June, Halifax Regional Police responded to planned rally/protest and counter protest at Grand Parade Halifax. The National Citizens Alliance had a permit for a rally/protest and the Halifax Against Hate group planned a counter protest.
At 10:00 a.m. the Halifax Against Hate group has set up in Grand Parade with approximately 150-200 people. Shortly after noon, members of the National Citizens Alliance arrived with 4 adult males. Police spoke with both sides in an effort to keep the peace between both groups.
The National Citizens Alliance was not able to set up in Grand Parade and while attempting to do so, a member was assaulted by an adult male from Halifax Against Hate. Police arrested a 34 year old male from Halifax and he was charged with Breach of the Peace. A large number of protesters took to the streets. Multiple patrol officers responded to Grand Parade to restore order and separate the two groups. Shortly after all involved left the area.
At 2:15 p.m., Halifax Regional Police returned to Grand Parade as the National Citizens Alliance returned and set up a speaker system and sign. At 2:52 p.m., members of the Halifax Against Hate group returned (wearing masks) and swarmed the National Citizens Alliance members. One male wearing a mask ripped a sign and took it with him, while other unknown persons assaulted the National Citizens Alliance.
Police intervened arrested the male that damaged the sign and left with the sign. While in the process of arresting the male, the police officer was also swarmed and deployed Pepper Spray to disperse the crowd. The protesters from both group eventually left without further incidents.
Police have charged a 28 year old male from Halifax with:
- Unlawful Assembly,
- Property Damage,
- Theft Under $5000
The 28 year old male will be released with a Halifax Court date and an Undertaking with conditions. No one was reported to police as being injured. The male arrested and charged was treated by Paramedics for Pepper Spray.