On July 16, around 10:45 am, Melfort RCMP received a call about an armed male on James Smith Cree Nation. An investigation determined the male, who was armed with a machete, was threatening individuals, including James Smith Cree Nation security officers, who initially responded and secured the area until police arrived.

Melfort RCMP found the male outside a house and told the male he was under arrest. He did not comply and assaulted one of the officers.

Officers reported they then deployed a conducted energy weapon and the male was taken into custody. 

The male did not report any injuries, but the assaulted police officer reported minor injuries. 

51-year-old Clarke Anderson from James Smith Cree Nation is charged with:

  • one count, assault with weapon, Section 267(a), Criminal Code;
  • one count, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, Section 88(2), Criminal Code;
  • one count, assault on police officer, Section 270(2), Criminal Code;
  • three counts, uttering threats, Section 264.1(1)(a), Criminal Code; and
  • five counts, fail to comply with release order condition, Section 145(5)(a), Criminal Code.

Clarke Anderson is scheduled to appear in Melfort Provincial Court on July 17, 2023.