Security beefed up after man leaps counter at Hamilton city hall

Security is heightened at Hamilton city hall after an angry visitor allegedly leapt over a service counter and threatened staff.

He got quite violent with staff and threatening," city manager Janette Smith said Wednesday.

The episode played out on the main floor by the business service area Friday.

It's quite wide open and he jumped over the counter," Smith said.

Staff, who weren't injured, left the area, according to protocol, she said.

Security guards and police responded. The man was arrested and faces a no-trespass order, Smith said.

And so we just have some extra security to ensure staff are safe."

Smith said she didn't know what sparked the angry outburst but noted the man had been to city hall before. The ornate Italian cart in the lobby was damaged, she said.

Police weren't immediately able to provide information about the incident Wednesday.

But the man was expected to be released Monday, public works general manager Carlyle Khan said.

Now he understands there's consequences and hopefully stays away."

Smith noted changes are in order for the service counters as part of an overall city hall security revamp that includes bollards that are to be installed on the forecourt.

Teviah Moro is a reporter at The Spectator. tmoro@thespec.com