On Thursday, June 16, everyone entering the Airdrie Courthouse was required to go through a full security check point.

The Alberta Sheriffs Department set up a mobile metal detector and had 4 Sheriffs on hand conducting security checks on individuals who set off the metal detector, as well as having one officer sitting through all of the proceedings.

Brendon Cox, Public Affairs Officer for the Justice Solicitor General, said that the safety of visitors and staff at the courthouse is a priority for the Alberta Sheriffs.

"Courthouses have robust security that may include armed Sheriffs, security instruments and protocols with local police. Our main courthouses have several layers of security including closed-circuit television cameras, perimeter security, courtroom security and roaming security personnel."

The Airdrie court is a circuit court which does not have permanent metal detectors or a full level of Sheriff protection for each court date, but a mobile set-up may be added when deemed necessary.

"The professionalism and risk assessment expertise of Sheriffs—with input from the courts and police—will continue to guide our security strategies."

Alberta Sheriff's will continue to use mobile protection when necessary in the Airdrie Court, but Cox could not comment on when it may be used again.