The Regina Police Service has concluded investigations into numerous bin fires that occurred in a Regina neighbourhood in the first eight months of 2017. Five girls, ages 12 and younger, are believed to be responsible. The 12 year-olds have been charged and two younger children have been referred to appropriate educational resources in the community.
From January to August of 2017, the Regina Police Service received reports of 26 garbage bin fires in the Al Ritchie neighbourhood. The majority of these fires occurred during school summer holidays from June 30th to August 31, 2017. Most of the fires occurred in the early morning hours, between 1:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Over the course of the investigation, it was learned the suspects in many of the fires were five girls, aged 12 and under. It is fortunate that there were no injuries resulting from the bin fires spreading to other structures. Further investigation led to charges against three of the youths.
The children cannot be named in accordance with the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act. One of the 12 year-olds was charged with nine counts of Arson, [434 CC]. A second 12 year-old is charged with eight counts of Arson, [434 CC]. And a third 12 year old is charged with two counts of Arson, [434 CC]. The three were released by Officers Undertaking for future court dates in Youth Court. The three accused must also complete a Firestarters Education program. There were also two children who were not charged because they are under the age of 12. These children have also been referred to the Firestarters Education Program.