Mayoral candidate, pastor arrested over weekend for violating pandemic health rules released from jail
Posted May 17, 2021 7:06 am.
Last Updated May 17, 2021 7:32 pm.
CALGARY – A Calgary mayoral candidate and a pastor who were both arrested for allegedly violating COVID-19 restrictions on the weekend are being released from jail.
The Calgary Police Service alleges Kevin J. Johnston, who is running for mayor, was in violation of a court order when he attended illegal gatherings on Saturday.
The Court of Queen’s Bench had imposed a restraining order on Johnston.
It required that he stay at least 100 metres away from health officers and not publish any threats or hate speech directed at them.
WATCH: Calgary mayoral candidate Kevin J. Johnston arrested: CPS
Pastor Tim Stephens was arrested Sunday for organizing a church service at Fairview Baptist Church, which police allege did not comply with public health orders.
An injunction obtained by Alberta Health Services on May 6 mandates that event organizers comply with COVID-19 restrictions — including masking, physical distancing and respecting attendance limits.
WATCH: Calgary pastor arrested
Police say they have been getting complaints from the community about him breaking covid restrictions.
Both men will be back in court on June 16 to deal with contempt of court proceedings.
