Man arrested for disturbance at Sudbury mayor's home

Sudbury police arrested and charged a 33-year-old man with criminal harassment after they responded to a call from Mayor Brian Bigger's home.

In a news release, police said they received a call Tuesday afternoon that a man was causing a disturbance at Bigger's home, banging on the front door and yelling while they recorded video.

"This caused Mayor Bigger and his family to fear for their safety," the statement said.

Police arrested the man later that night.

He's scheduled for a first court appearance on Jan. 26.

"This is a reminder that there are proper and appropriate channels available to community members who are looking to contact public officials," police said in therelease.

"Attending an individual's private residence is not an appropriate avenue. Please be respectful of their privacy and the privacy and safety of their family members."

Mayor Bigger speaks out

In an interview with CBC News, Bigger said his wife was quite concerned by the incident.

"Thankfully the police did respond and find the individual," he said. "Happy with the outcome so far."

Bigger said he has noticed a change in the public discourse, with more anger and hostility from a small number of individuals directed toward politicians and frontline health care workers.

"And it's clear that there are also small numbers of individuals," he said. "We all know who they are that they continue to add fuel to these challenges."

But Bigger said there are many good people in Greater Sudbury, and that's the image of the community he wants to project.

He said his current focus is working with council to draft the city's 2022 budget.

"Obviously, top of mind is COVID-19, homelessness, mental health, addictions challenges in our community, Laurentian University, our downtown, affordable housing," he said.

"There's so many topics that are pulling us in so many directions with admittedly limited funds, and yet we have to stay focused and do our very best."