Here's why Waterloo regional police can't just bust up anti-lockdown rallies

As the province continues to report thousands of new COVID-19 cases daily, why are people in Waterloo region allowed to protest against lockdown restrictions, in large groups and without wearing masks?

That's a question Waterloo Regional Police Chief Bryan Larkin says he's fielded a lot in recent weeks, amid regular anti-lockdown protests in Uptown Waterloo and across the region.

"This is a delicate balance for policing, it's a delicate balance for public safety," Larkin told reporters during a media briefing Friday.

Larkin said police must consider both the provincial stay-at-home order, as well as the right to democratic protest.

In the context of a protest against government intervention, Larkin said, officers are also wary of whether breaking up a gathering could make people more agitated.

"To send police into the middle of the crowd to take action could potentially create further issues," he said, noting protests may have seniors and children around.

"It could create further incitement, it could also put the membersat risk, it could put other people who are there lawfully and peacefully participating in the protest at risk."

'Charges will be laid'

Still, Larkinsaid that doesn't mean police are doing nothing.

"In all of the protests I can tell you that if charges have not been laid, charges will be laid," he said.

During Friday's briefing, the region reported a total of 46 enforcement actions between April 22 and April 28. Four of those charges were left over from the previous reporting period.

These included court summons issued in Waterloo for failure to comply with the stay-at-home order and gathering provisions. Tickets and court summons were also issued at Trinity Bible Chapel in Woolwich Township, which has been fined several times for exceeding capacity limits.

Some charges were also laid in connection to house parties and masking violations.

The 46 enforcement actions are up from 25 reported during the previous media briefing. Larkin said he believes it's the most enforcement actions reported in a single week since the pandemic began.

"Enough is enough," he said. "For those that flagrantly put other peopleat risk, we will be taking enforcement action."