Controversial Calgary mayoral candidate Kevin J. Johnston charged with harassment of AHS employee

Controversial Calgary mayoral candidate and anti-masker Kevin J. Johnston has been charged in relation to the harassment of an Alberta Health Services (AHS) employee.

Johnston, 49, allegedly displayed "threatening conduct" toward the AHS employee in person, on social media and online between April 24 and May 22, Calgary policesaid Wednesday.

One count of criminal harassment has been laid after an investigation by police and in consultation with the Alberta Prosecution Service.

The charge comes after Johnston was served with a $1.3-million lawsuit served by AHS after months of threats against its employees on various web broadcasts and online video streams.

The statement of claim notes 15 times Johnston posted hateful commentary about two health inspectors in particular, including "suggesting the plaintiffs would likely be 'stabbed' or put in a 'wheelchair' and would deserve it."

Johnston is also facing criminal charges in three provinces: an assault charge in British Columbia,hate crimechargesin Ontario and, most recently, a charge of causing a disturbance in Alberta.

He is currently behind barsafter being denied bail on June 14in connection with charges of causing a disturbance and breaching a court order.