Teen charged after allegedly bear-spraying P.A. police officers in the face

By Nigel Maxwell

A teenage boy who allegedly bear-sprayed multiple people, including two Prince Albert police officers, made his first court appearance on Monday.

On June 1, at 12:53 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 400 block of 28 Street East in Prince Albert for a disturbance.

It was reported there was a group of males in an alley and one was armed with a canister of bear spray.

While en route to the call, police were told that a 59-year-old man had been sprayed.

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Officers arrived at 12:55 a.m. and immediately located a 17-year-old boy who matched the description of the suspect. Police said the teen initially spoke to the officers, then took off on foot.

Police said when officers gave chase, the boy fired the bear spray, striking the pursuing officers in the face.

As additional officers were responding, the two officers fought through the effects of the bear spray, gained control of the boy, and took him into custody.

The youth is facing several charges, including assault with a weapon, assaulting a police officer, carrying a concealed weapon, and possession of a weapon.

The officers were treated for the effects of bear spray and remained on duty that night, completing their shift.