Police keep eye on planned anti-mask protest to place Burlington mayor under 'citizen arrest'

The mayor of Burlington says she, and police, are taking precautions prior toaprotest planned forFriday, in which members of an anti-mask group claim they are attempting to place her under"citizen arrest."

Mayor Marianne Meed Wardsaid she has been in close contact with police and has a security plan.

"I've taken appropriate measures to make sure that my safety is protected," said Meed Ward.

Shesaid police have told her there is "no reasonable grounds" for what the group is trying to do.

Shesaidshe supports people's right to protest, and believesthe group members will not attempt to use physical force based on their social media statements.

A Halton Regional Police spokesperson says they are aware of the group, called "Stand4Thee," and their calls to arrest political figures.

"As always, the [Halton Regional Police Service] respects the Charter right to a peaceful protest," said Ryan Anderson, media relations officer, in an email.

"It is common for police to attend protests such as these and HRPS officers will be in attendance if required."

One of the fringe group leaders has publicly called for parentsto place any mayor of Canada under a citizen arrest, and condemned mask requirements. An email from the group says they are trying to protect children from harm from what it calls "unjustified" COVID-19 safety measures.

Meed Ward said Burlington's mask by-law already hasexceptions for children and people with certain medical conditions.

"The folks that are gathering to protest have every right to do that," she said.

"We trust and hope that they will keep it peaceful. If they do that then it's all good."

In a statement, the group said the citizen arrest "will be conducted, peacefully, lawfully and without harm."

Meed Ward said she is proud of how the majority of her community has embraced COVID-19 safety measures to keep each other safe.