RCMP investigate bullying incident and charge 6 youth

On May 31 Claresholm RCMP responded to multiple complaints regarding a large group of youth who where bullying and chasing a 13-yearold girl throughout the town of Nanton.

Claresholm and Nanton RCMP responded and an investigation was initiated. The investigation revealed that there was a long history of inappropriate behaviour with these youth and the victim, some of which had a criminal element.

On June 3, RCMP arrested and charged a total of 6 youth, five who were 14 years old and one who was 15 years old. The youth are facing a total of 10 criminal charges, which include:

• Intimidation (6 youth were charged)

• Mischief (3 youth were charged)

• Utter Threats (1 youth was charged) All 6 were released from custody to appear in Provincial Court in Fort Macleod on July 15, 2022.

Nanton Detachment Commander, A/Corporal Tom NAIRN, stated “The investigation revealed a long history of inappropriate behaviour involving most or all of the persons charged.

It is unfortunate that multiple past warnings were ignored and that the issue elevated to this level. The RCMP takes bullying and related criminal offences serious and will continue to protect the community and victims from such.”

RCMP continue to investigate this matter. If you have any information regarding this matter, please contact the Nanton RCMP at 403.646.5722 or Claresholm RCMP at 403.625.4445. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www. P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.