Three more men have been charged in the investigation into a September homecoming gathering near the University of Guelph, bringing the number arrested to 15 as police continue looking for suspects, Global News reports.

The latest accused are from York Region and Hamilton. Each faces two counts of assault causing bodily harm and one count of mischief under $5,000, according to reporting by Global News’ Aaron D’Andrea.

Twelve people arrested last week each face charges of assault with a weapon, causing a disturbance and two counts of mischief. One also faces a charge of assaulting a police officer with a weapon. The accused range in age from 17 to 26. The charges are allegations, not findings of guilt.

The Sept. 26 gathering drew as many as 15,000 people and generated roughly $91,000 in policing costs, according to a report presented to the Guelph Police Service Board last month and cited by Global News.

Video showed people throwing objects into large crowds. Students described glass bottles, metal water bottles, sticks and other debris being hurled through the air. Some told Global News they left as the situation escalated.

Police eventually deployed tactical officers to help restore order. Emergency responders treated multiple people for injuries, including cuts and lacerations, and handled several intoxication-related medical calls.

The board report identified 11 criminal incidents connected to the gathering: seven assaults, an offensive weapons occurrence, a disturb-the-peace occurrence and two mischief incidents involving public property and a vehicle.

During the event, police made six arrests: four involving public intoxication, one involving an alleged assault and one involving causing a disturbance. Officers also issued roughly 70 provincial offence notices, mostly involving open liquor.

Four property damage reports included a Guelph Transit bus shelter, two vehicles on Chancellor’s Way and other personal property. Several businesses also submitted complaints that remain under investigation, the report said.

Police have announced plans for a working group with the city, the University of Guelph and Guelph General Hospital to help manage large, unsanctioned gatherings.

Sources