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Keremeos Village office back open to the public after violent attack

New security measures are in place including security cameras and intercom
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Village offices boarded up after an attack on the office and staff Jan. 24. (File photo)

The Village of Keremeos offices are now open to the public with new security measures following the violent attack on the building and staff in January.

The doors to the office are locked and a new intercom system has been installed to buzz people in.

In addition to the new intercom system, the village’s municipal office has received a fresh makeover as well as additional security upgrades.

The village has installed new security glass, and security cameras within the office.

The office was closed in December 2021 following a burst pipe that caused flooding and water damage to the building. But the office was also in need of extensive repairs and security upgrades following the violent attack on the office and staff in January.

On Jan. 24, RCMP were called to the Village offices at 10:50 a.m. after witnesses reported a man threatening staff while brandishing a sledgehammer and a knife.

The man allegedly assaulted staff inside the office, as well as damaged property including the front door which was boarded up for some time.

The new security measures installed at the Keremeos municipal office. (Village of Keremeos)

As employees escaped from the building, the man allegedly followed them outside while continuing to yell and assault them, said police.

When RCMP arrived he allegedly assaulted an officer before he was arrested.

READ MORE: Village office partially opens after attack

Fourteen criminal charges have been filed against the accused Cameron Edward Jake Urquhart.

Urquhart is currently behind bars waiting for an extensive psych report to determine if he is fit to stand for the charges.