Sask. man charged in online threats against prime minister

A Saskatchewan man has been charged after allegedly uttering threats online against Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

RCMP said Wednesday they received a complaint on March 30 of a man posting the comments on social media.

The RCMP National Security Enforcement Section began an investigation and on July 13 a second complaint was received of a similar nature.

“We take all complaints of this nature (threats) very seriously, no matter who the victim is or by what means the threat is conveyed, and investigate them to their fullest potential,” said Supt. Rob Cameron, F Division assistant criminal operations officer, federal policing.

“We can’t speculate on whether or not someone may or may not act on alleged threats made. In this instance we became aware of these alleged threats, conducted an investigation and laid charges against one person,” he said.

As a result of the ongoing investigation, RCMP arrested 41-year-old Christopher Hayes from Grayson, Sask. at his home in the community near Melville on Aug. 2.

Hayes is charged with one count of uttering threats.

In addition, RCMP searched a residence in Grayson on Aug. 2 and seized several electronics items.

RCMP said there was no direct contact between Hayes and the victim and the investigation is ongoing.

Also assisting in this investigation is the Yorkton RCMP General Investigation Section, RCMP Integrated Organized Crime Unit South and Melville/Ituna RCMP Detachment.

Hayes made his first appearance in Yorkton Provincial Court on Wednesday. His next court appearance is scheduled Aug. 8 at 10 a.m. in Melville Provincial Court.