A Simcoe woman is in disbelief after being charged with assault with a weapon for what she says was the act of spraying a person with water during a water gun fight.
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Wendy Washik, 58, was named by police in a news release after a Labor Day weekend incident on Woodway Trail and has since been suspended from her job.
“I’m very upset that my full name was disclosed (but) the type of weapon wasn’t mentioned,” Washik told the Simcoe Reformer.
Washik said she was charged with the offense without being asked a “single question”
Norfolk OPP called the Sept. 1 incident a neighbor argument and said one person was “physically assaulted” but no injuries were reported.
Spokesperson Const. Andrew Gamble said details about what kinds of weapons are involved in charges are not generally shared with the public unless there’s a specific safety concern or a way it could help an investigation.
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In a GoFundMe post aimed at helping Washik cover legal fees, Washik’s daughter, Randi Washik, said her mother was part of a water gun fight with some neighboring children when another neighbor was hit with a “rogue spray of water”.
“There was clearly no intent to insult anyone during this harmless activity,” says the post.
When police arrived, Washik – an educational assistant who works with children with developmental disabilities and a mother of two — was charged.
“Wendy Washik is an outstanding example of an ideal citizen within the community and it is outrageous that she has been burdened with these slanderous accusations,” says the GoFundMe post.
It indicates she has been suspended from her 25-year career as an educational assistant and alleges the charges are unnecessary and as a result of “young, incompetent officers.”
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The site, which has been shared on community social media groups, has already raised more than $2,100 in donations for Washik’s projected legal fees.
Const. Gamble said every case is thoroughly investigated to ensure it’s handled appropriately.
“We are committed to maintaining high standards in our investigative work, regardless of how the public may perceive the allocation of resources.
“Our focus remains on doing our job effectively, ensuring that each case receives the attention it deserves, regardless of public perception.”
Gamble said the Washik comment about “incompetent officers” was an opinion, noting Norfolk OPP works diligently to uphold standards of professionalism and thoroughness.
At this point, Washik is set to appear for the first time in Simcoe court on Sept. 24.
@EXPSGamble
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