Three Medicine Hat men, one adult and two youth, have been charged with assault following an investigation into recent events where members of the public were exposed to bear spray.

In early December 2023, the Medicine Hat Police Service responded to two separate reports of random bear spray assaults that occurred in the city. In both incidents the unsuspecting victims were sprayed with a chemical agent, later identified as bear spray, as they were walking. In January 2024, a third incident was reported.

The Medicine Hat Police Service Criminal Investigation Section investigated the series of events and were able to identify those responsible. As a result, three males from Medicine Hat have been charged with the following:

Jared Adam (19 years of age)

• Assault with a weapon x 3
• Possession of a weapon dangerous to the public x 2
• Resist arrest

The two other individuals charged were ages 15 and 17 years old and under the provisions set forth under the Youth Justice Act, their names can not be released. The 15-year-old was charged with three counts of assault with a weapon, and possession of a weapon dangerous, while the 17-year-old was charged with assault with a weapon.

All three victims were treated for bear spray exposure and did not sustain any lasting physical effects from these events.

Media Contact:
S/Sgt. Jason Graham
Criminal Investigation Section
Medicine Hat Police Service
PH: 403-529-8421