City councillor arrived at Winnipeg City Hall Thursday morning, one day after in relation to a complaint from earlier this year.
On Wednesday, Winnipeg police said a man reported a sexual assault to them in February. The complainant told police he was drugged and sexually assaulted, which led to Wyatt being charged with sexual assault and administering a noxious thing with intent to aggrieve or annoy.
“I’m going to my council meeting,” the longtime city councillor told reporters when he arrived on Thursday morning.
When asked if he would step aside as the representative for Transcona, Wyatt directed questions to his attorney.
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Mayor Scott Gillingham, who has recommended Wyatt step away “to deal with the serious matter,” said the situation is a distraction but not stopping council’s work.
Wyatt did not follow the mayor’s recommendation. During the meeting, he spoke about transit and a possible municipal takeover of authority over default speed limits.
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While he spoke, city councillor Cindy Gilroy turned her chair away and faced the audience instead of her colleagues – a move the mayor said he supports.
“It’s a message. This is the second time that this councillor has been charged with an offence, a very violent offence. So, this really concerns me,” explained the representative for the Daniel McIntyre ward.
“I’m very uncomfortable with the situation. I want to make sure I’m making a stance so I’m supporting the many victims out there,” Gilroy continued.
Ensuring staffers, as well as those dealing with the City of Winnipeg feel comfortable should be prioritized, she said.
“We have to be held to a higher standard as elected people,” said Gilroy. She called on Wyatt to be removed from all city activities as the investigation into the alleged sexual assault continues.
Other councillors, including the representative for St. Norbert-Seine River, agreed, saying they believe he should take some time away.
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“This is a big distraction. I think he should step back and let the rest of us do the work,” Coun. Markus Chambers said on Thursday. “The people’s business must continue on.”
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Wyatt is permitted to be in the council chambers, according to the city’s charter, which does not bar members who are under criminal investigation from appearing.
“He’s entitled to due process,” said Coun. Sherri Rollins, who represents Fort Rouge-East Fort Garry.
“It might be a good idea to focus on him right now and have him step away to deal with what he needs to deal with. We want that for all of our colleagues, but today, he’s got a motion before council.”
In his municipal ward of Transcona, Global News approached approximately 25 residents. Roughly half said they are aware of the charges laid against Wyatt – but very few wanted to weigh in on his future as a city councillor.
“When the time comes to vote, think clearly and strongly about electing to council the strongest group of men and women to lead the city,” said Gillingham.
Wyatt was also The charge was stayed the following year.
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