At approximately, 12:30 p.m., Sunday, April 5, 2020, Southwest Division patrol members responded to an assault call involving a passenger on an ETS bus parked near Southgate Mall.
It was reported to police that Transit Peace Officers were attempting to arrest a male suspect who was involved in a physical altercation with another passenger on the bus. The bus driver subsequently pulled over and stopped the bus, after noticing the altercation between the two passengers.
At that point, it is alleged that the accused entered the bus driver’s enclosure and repeatedly coughed on the bus driver. Police were also told that the accused coughed on the Transit Peace Officers during their arrest, before stating that he had tested positive for COVID-19.
Daniel Black, 38, of Edmonton, is charged with assault (x2), assault of a Peace Officer and an individual contravening an order of the Chief Medical Officer under the Public Health Act. Black is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday, June 16, 2020.
The Edmonton Police Service is reminding citizens to stay home and adhere to pandemic protocols if they are showing symptoms and/or have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. Citizens found in contravention of these orders can be charged by Peace Officers, Bylaw Officers and members of the Edmonton Police Service.
For more information on protocols please visit: www.alberta.ca.
Public complaints about non-compliance with any of the Medical Officer of Health’s orders should be made online at: https://ephisahs.microsoftcrmportals.com/create-case/, and not to 911, which is for emergency situations only.