Neighbour caught on camera waving hatchet, shouting slurs, faces charges

Disturbing actions from a next-door neighbour have a Calgary family calling for action from police and policymakers. The man was charged.

Serious criminal charges have now been laid after a Calgary family raised concerns about police not acting quickly following frightening and bizarre behaviour by a neighbour.

But after CTV’s reporting of the situation Tuesday, police have charged Shayne Stewart with two counts of criminal harassment and one count each of assault with a weapon, mischief, unauthorized possession of a prohibited weapon and possession of a controlled substance.

The 47 year-old was taken into custody. He was scheduled to appear in court Thursday.

Joffrey De Villa was pleased to hear police have taken action, after he called 911 in May and July when his security cameras caught disturbing behaviour from his neighbour.

Top priority

Calgary Police Service said the safety of all Calgarians, particularly those being targeted in their own homes, is a top priority.

“While we aim to act quickly, ongoing investigations can sometimes have unforeseen challenges that can become time consuming, including the need to collect evidence, witness statements and compile the necessary information to support formal charges.

It is important to understand that we strive not simply for a charge, but the successful prosecution of those offenders we charge,” said a statement from CPS.