Accused can’t appear for hearing due to COVID

A Lethbridge man accused of throwing a suspicious package into the police station last week, remains in custody following his second court hearing since he was arrested.

Kyle Glen Lowe, who is remanded at the Lethbridge Correctional Centre, was unable to appear in Lethbridge provincial court Monday, even by CCTV, because he is in a “dry cell” after showing symptoms of COVID-19.

The accused was remanded following his first court hearing Friday, and his matter was adjourned again Monday, but only for two days when his case is set ostensibly for a bail hearing on Wednesday.

A portion of the police station was evacuated after a 29-year-old man threw a package into the front entrance about 10:15 a.m. Thursday.

Police deployed a remote-controlled unit, which picked up a cardboard box and carried it outside.

Police said the box, which appeared to be covered in messages written with black marker, did not contain explosive or hazardous material, and the police station was re-opened later the same day.

Police apprehended a suspect a short time later, who they also believe set a fire in a planter outside the police station about 6 a.m. Wednesday.

Lowe is charged with arson, mischief, four counts of failure to comply with release conditions, and intimidation of justice.

Crown Prosecutor Bruce Ainscough elected on Monday to proceed by indictment, which allows for a maximum term of imprisonment of 14 years for arson and intimidation.

Ainscough told court he is opposed to Lowe’s release from custody, and he intends to apply to revoke Lowe’s bail granted previously on other charges.

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