Despite a court injunction, heavy fencing, and a significant police presence, St. Patrick’s Day revellers in Waterloo’s university district still took to the streets, resulting in numerous arrests and charges.
The Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) confirmed that from March 15 to March 17, 17 individuals were arrested, and over 250 charges were issued. The injunction, designed to prevent unauthorized street parties, allowed for the arrest or detention of anyone found attending, organizing, or promoting such gatherings, as well as those violating the city’s nuisance bylaw.
Police Chief Acknowledges Challenges
Speaking at the police services board meeting on Wednesday, WRPS Chief Mark Crowell underscored the risks and financial burden these events impose on the community.
“The fact that we sought a court injunction highlights the level of concern regarding these gatherings,” Crowell stated. “There is still more analysis to be done to fully understand the factors behind this behavior and to explore solutions that mitigate risks, costs, and resource strain in the future.”
Despite the massive crowds, no physical injuries or property damage were reported. However, the sheer scale of the event forced police to shift to crowd management strategies.
Tens of Thousands Flood the Streets
Authorities estimated that between 20,000 and 25,000 people packed the Marshall Street corridor during the weekend. Around 2:45 p.m. on March 15, WRPS reported that a large group deliberately moved from the sidewalks onto the street in an apparent coordinated effort to take over the area. Officers quickly transitioned to public safety measures, shutting down multiple streets to vehicular traffic.
The police response required extensive coordination and resources, not just from WRPS but also from other regional partners. Later in the evening, around 6:45 p.m., officers deployed a Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) to broadcast instructions to the crowd, successfully clearing the area within 30 minutes.
Hundreds of Incidents Under Investigation
In total, WRPS responded to over 450 incidents throughout the weekend. As investigators continue reviewing video footage, additional charges may follow.
When asked whether the court injunction could become a standard enforcement tool in future years, Chief Crowell noted that its effectiveness would require further evaluation.
“I anticipate this will be a key focus in future planning,” he said. “Our goal is always to prevent worst-case scenarios, and we need to build strategies with that in mind.”
Wide Range of Offenses
The more than 250 charges laid so far span a variety of offenses, including:
- Careless driving
- Public intoxication
- Assault and sexual assault
- Uttering threats
- Violating a court injunction
Community Leaders Express Frustration
While not formally on the agenda, the street parties were briefly discussed at Wednesday’s regional police services board meeting. Board Chair Ian McLean did not hold back in his criticism.
“This is first and foremost a safety issue—and it always has been,” McLean stated. “The sheer number of people gathering like this not only puts their own safety at risk but endangers others in the community. It’s a disgrace.”
McLean also warned that if the issue isn’t addressed effectively, a tragedy could be inevitable.
“Eventually, someone will be seriously injured or killed, and at that point, the blame game will start,” he added. “This doesn’t happen in every university town, but for some reason, it continues to be a problem here and in Kingston. We have to find a way to deal with it.”
Municipal Enforcement Takes Action
Between 5 p.m. on Saturday and 7 a.m. on Tuesday, Waterloo’s municipal enforcement division fielded 129 complaint calls related to the celebrations. In response, officials issued 36 charges, 25 of which carried fines of $800 each.
A comprehensive report detailing the events and enforcement actions is expected to be presented at the next police services board meeting on April 16.
