Police have issued a stern warning after a hydro worker attempting to restore power in the Kawartha area was allegedly threatened by an upset resident.
According to Peterborough County OPP, police received a report about the incident on Wednesday, April 2.
After responding to the scene and speaking with the individual who is among the crews working on restoration in the area, the individual reportedly told police they were at the side of the road completing some paperwork when a dark-coloured SUV stopped beside them.
The driver spoke to the complainant and allegedly stated that if the power wasn’t restored to their home by that evening, they would be coming after the hydro worker to cause them harm, reported OPP.
The complainant – although not wanting to proceed with charges – contacted police to ensure it was reported, said OPP.
The incident has police issuing an appeal to area residents still experiencing outages. While acknowledging the frustration of residents, police are reminding individuals that making threats can be considered a criminal offence and stressed such actions won’t be tolerated.
Police also noted that under the Criminal Code of Canada, an uttering threats charge can be punishable by a term of between two and five years in prison.
Over the past week, police noted they’ve seen hundreds – if not thousands – of hydro workers from near and far tirelessly working around the clock to help restore power.
“The conditions that they have been working in have been less than favourable between weather conditions, as well as working around and through debris from the storm,” echoed police, while extending their appreciation for crews’ hard work and dedication and vowing to continue to support workers’ efforts.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
