FROM: Caledonia	RELEASE: December 3, 2006

Compromising Peace in Caledonia - Not an Option

Caledonia ON - The O.P.P. once again had their hands busy this weekend dealing with a handful of residents who decided to jeopardize the fragile peace established in Caledonia. Two residents, using the motive of “Supporting Our Troops” decided to taunt the First Nations Occupiers on the Douglas Creek Site by encouraging others in attempting to erect Canadian Flags adjacent to the site.

Despite warnings from police that these actions were juvenile and could potentially put the community at risk, these self-serving individuals continued with their plans and by doing so ramped up tensions in the Community. Early Sunday morning First Nations persons stole two Canadian Flags from a property in Caledonia and fled from police onto the occupied area. One flag was returned and police are attempting to retrieve the other flag and find out who was responsible for the theft.

As a result of the incident on Saturday one male party was arrested for Trespassing and released unconditionally. The male party, clearly frustrated with the ongoing occupation expressed regret for his action to police. The O.P.P. Criminal Investigation Unit is now looking into the Criminal Theft of the flags and charges are pending.

The O.P.P. will not tolerate the actions of those willing to put their own self-motivated agendas ahead of the betterment of the community. The O.P.P. remains committed to keeping the peace and wish to remind everyone that there will be serious consequences for these types of selfish and juvenile actions.

Negotiations are in progress and remain in the hands of multi-level negotiating teams and government. At this time of the year it is the hope of the O.P.P. that everyone will concentrate on Peace. The best way we can “Support our Troops” is by letting them know there is Peace at Home.

--30--

Media Relations Unit
Ontario Provincial Police
905-765-9453