Threats made against Waterloo region church that held in-person services during lockdown: Police

Police are investigating threatening messages against a church just outside Waterloo thatopened during stay-at-home orders.

The Waterloo Regional Police Service saidTrinity Bible Chapel in WoolwichTownship received threatening messages on Jan. 25 and Feb. 1.

"The threats included statements to cause harm to the building and members," police said in a release.

The church has come under fire for opening at least three times for in-person services inside the church during the provincial lockdown and stay-at-home orders. The church, elders and the pastor are facing contempt chargesfor holding an in-person service that exceeded gathering limits under the province's Reopening Ontario Act.

Police are investigating the threats against the church and reminded people "any threat of violence or intimidation will be taken seriously, and the authors of these threats will be held accountable."

"Waterloo Regional Police also encourage anyone who sees anything suspicious in the area to call police immediately," police said in the release.

Anyone with information about the threats are asked to callpolice at 519-570-9777 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.