The two women who were caught defacing a sign for the campaign to oust Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek won’t be charged criminally but will be required to do a program for first-time offenders.
As first reported by True North, the Calgary Police Service launched an investigation into the incident last week after videos circulated showing two women painting a “Recall Gondek” sign.
The individuals wrote over the “recall” portion, changing it to say “respect.”
Police showed up at Parkdale Boulevard NW and 30 Street NW early in the morning over reports of property damage.
Two women were identified by social media users after one of the women, Carolyn Pogue posted a selfie beside the sign on Facebook while holding a paintbrush.
According to police, the two women will not be facing charges.
“Following our investigation, the suspects involved in the property damage incident have come forward to police,” said Calgary police in a statement given to Postmedia.
Instead, the pair have had their case forwarded to the Alberta Crown Prosecution Service for an adult alternative measures program.
The program is meant to reform individuals who have committed minor offences but have no prior criminal charges on their record.
The program usually includes charitable donations, restorative justice or other things including community service.
To recall Gondek, campaigners will have to get 512,284 signatures, the equivalent to 40% of Calgary’s population.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has called the requirement “a little unfair” and unrealistic given that only a fraction of that number actually voted for Gondek to be mayor.
