The Regina Police Service would like to remind the public that there are no grizzly, black, or brown bears in the city, so most people don’t need to buy or carry bear spray unless they are planning on taking a trip to Northern Saskatchewan.
From January 2015 to September 2015, Regina Police Service officers respond to 44 incidents where bear spray was discharged at another person. The Regina Police Service reminds the public that a person can be charged with a criminal offence for discharging bear spray against another person in the city of Regina. In Canada, it is illegal to carry a concealed weapon or a device that is being carried with intent to injure, immobilize or otherwise incapacitate any person by the discharge of the item (including tear gas, mace, bear spray or other gas). Buying or possessing bear spray is not an offence but buying it “for protection” is; in an urban environment that usually means someone intends to use it against someone else, as an offensive weapon. Possible criminal code charges could include Assault with a Weapon, Carrying a Concealed Weapon and Possession of a Weapon for A Dangerous Purpose.
Regina Police Service members have been working with Regina retailers, to better educate them on the requirements of the Federal Pest Control Products Act. Bear spray is a regulated product under this Act. Retailers have the right to refuse a sale of bear spray. Anyone purchasing bear spray must provide photo ID and sign a waiver form that includes the individual’s name and address. These forms will be accessible to police should the need arise.
If you know of someone who has a concealed weapon in their possession with intent to use in an illegal manner, please call the Regina Police Service at 306-777-6500 or remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). If you see a crime in progress, call 9-1-1.
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