Richmond Mounties say they are investigating an altercation that took place outside Richmond Provincial Court on Wednesday.
In a statement Thursday afternoon, RCMP said the suspect, a 44-year-old Vancouver woman, was arrested and later released on a promise to appear in court on Oct. 20.
The woman, who was not named by police, faces possible charges of assault and mischief.
The incident took place outside Richmond Provincial Court around 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday.
Protesters from the Stop Asian Hate Crimes Advocacy group held a rally at the courthouse that afternoon, when a court appearance was scheduled for two people allegedly involved in an anti-Asian hate incident at a Steveston café back in March.
Police said they responded to an altercation outside the courthouse around 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday.
After arriving at the scene, Mounties said they were told by several demonstrators that the woman “had exited the courthouse and confronted them, hitting several of them and damaging at least one cell phone in the process.”
No serious injuries were reported to police.
Ian Henderson, Richmond RCMP spokesperson, said initial media reports alleging that this matter was yet another hate incident “may be inaccurate. “
“Initial information suggests the accused had been at the courthouse on a completely unrelated matter, and took offence to being video recorded by demonstrators. Richmond RCMP investigators continue to investigate this matter fully, and we encourage the public to reserve judgement at least until the investigation is complete,” said Henderson.
“Hate has no place in Richmond, and we support those in our community who are standing up against it.”
Anyone who may still have video of the incident which has not yet been forwarded to police is asked to contact the Richmond RCMP directly at 604-278-1212, quoting file number 2021-20408.
