Charges in Lethbridge hostage taking upgraded amid examination of firearm
Some of the charges laid against a woman accused in a hostage taking in downtown Lethbridge in July have been changed after further investigation into the weapons used.
The incident unfolded at the Lethbridge Legal Guidance office in the 400 block of 5 Street South on July 15.
Police say four employees were working when a woman entered and asked to speak with a specific lawyer who was not available.
The woman then asked to use the washroom and, roughly 10 minutes later, returned armed with what appeared to be a handgun.
The suspect allegedly pointed the gun at the employees and began threatening them and demanding they get the lawyer on the phone.
Three of the employees were able to escape but the woman allegedly forced a 54-year-old woman into an office, pushing chairs up against the door.
The tactical team and crisis negotiators swarmed the office. After an hour of negotiations, officers entered the building and apprehended the suspect.
The hostage, 54-year-old Kathryn Linder, had been stabbed multiple times in the neck and was taken to hospital in life-threatening condition. She has since been released from hospital and told CTV News it took 56 stiches to mend her wounds.
Courtney Louise Shaw of Lethbridge was charged with 15 offences, including use of an imitation firearm while committing an offence.
On Wednesday, the Lethbridge Police Service said testing of the airsoft handgun seized at the scene determined it met the definition of a firearm based on the velocity of its projectile.
As a result, original charges referring to 'use of an imitation firearm' have been changed to firearm charges.
Shaw's updated charges are as follows:
- Attempted murder;
- Aggravated assault;
- Taking a hostage;
- Assault with a weapon (knife);
- Two counts of possession of a weapon dangerous to the public;
- Four counts each of unlawful confinement;
- Uttering threats;
- Pointing a firearm, and
- And assault with a weapon (firearm).
Her next court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 1.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Doctors ask Liberal government to reconsider capital gains tax change
The Canadian Medical Association is asking the federal government to reconsider its proposed changes to capital gains taxation, arguing it will affect doctors' retirement savings.
Keeping these exotic pets is 'cruel' and 'dangerous,' Canadian animal advocates say
Canadian pet owners are finding companionship beyond dogs and cats. Tigers, alligators, scorpions and tarantulas are among some of the exotic pets they are keeping in private homes, which pose risks to public safety and animal welfare, advocates say.
Prince William and wife Kate thank public for birthday messages for son Louis
Prince William and his wife Kate thanked the public for their messages which had been sent to mark the sixth birthday of their youngest son Louis on Tuesday.
She was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father. Then life dealt her a blow
Anne Marie Cavner was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father, but then life dealt her a blow. From an unexpected loss to a host of new relationships, a DNA test changed her life, and she doesn't regret a thing.
How quietly promised law changes in the 2024 federal budget could impact your day-to-day life
The 2024 federal budget released last week includes numerous big spending promises that have garnered headlines. But, tucked into the 416-page document are also series of smaller items, such as promising to amend the law regarding infant formula and to force banks to label government rebates, that you may have missed.
RCMP uncovers plot to sell drones and equipment to Libya
The RCMP says it has uncovered a ploy to sell Chinese drones and military equipment to Libya illegally.
Which foods have the most plastics? You may be surprised
'How much plastic will you have for dinner, sir? And you, ma'am?' While that may seem like a line from a satirical skit on Saturday Night Live, research is showing it's much too close to reality.
'Catch-and-kill' strategy to be a focus as testimony resumes in Trump hush money case
A veteran tabloid publisher was expected to return to the witness stand Tuesday in Donald Trump's historic hush money trial.
Quebec farmers have been protesting since December. Is anyone listening?
Upset about high interest rates, growing paperwork and heavy regulatory burdens, protesting farmers have become a familiar sight across Quebec since December.