The City of Grand Forks is looking for more serious charges after an attack on a city worker.
The bylaw officer faced a knife-wielding man in Gyro Park on Oct. 1 before his truck was smashed to bits.
Mayor Everett Baker says a letter was sent to the Crown’s office asking for charges of assault on a peace officer and assault with intent to harm, maim or kill.
“We as the city, and as mayor, I really wanted to make sure that the full extent of the law was applied in this gentleman’s case and that he be banned from Grand Forks,” Baker said in an interview with Vista Radio.
The mayor wasn’t in a position to share the letter but noted it will become a public record in the future.
Baker was on the scene the day of the attack.
“I just live up the street from Gyro Park and, I’ll tell you, the amount of damage, the anger this gentleman showed towards our bylaw officer with the destruction of his vehicle was just absolutely crazy to say the least.”
Baker says the circumstances of the attack are being reviewed by the city’s safety committee, which may make recommendations to prevent future incidents. WorkSafeBC is also involved.
As it stands now, Andre Conn is facing charges of mischief and making death threats. He will appear in court Nov. 14.
In an Oct. 3 news release, Grand Forks RCMP said “charges may be modified or additional charges may be added” once a full investigation is complete.
Baker says the bylaw officer, who wasn’t physically hurt, was wearing a body camera. “The video is quite shocking to say the least.”
The mayor adds he’s followed up personally with the officer and all city services have been offered in his recovery. “To my understanding, he has taken advantage of a couple of them but otherwise has recovered, really, as best you can in those kind of situations.”
Baker also praised Grand Forks RCMP for their handling of the situation and their quick response to the park.