Niagara Regional Police say two people are facing a string of firearms-related charges after members of a nightclub security team in downtown St. Catharines refused them entry and reported a concealed weapon to officers.
Security staff alert police after refusal of entry
Police say the incident began on Friday when security at a bar on St. Paul Street denied two people admission after they were observed attempting to enter while concealing a firearm. The pair left the immediate area but were later located by officers during a search and taken into custody.
"A 9mm Glock handgun loaded with live ammunition rounds was seized," police said.
The firearm seizure and subsequent arrests were confirmed by Niagara police. Records provided by police identify the accused as 26-year-old Giovanni Jervis of St. Catharines and 20-year-old Aireonna Wilson of St. Catharines.
Charges laid
Both people face multiple charges stemming from possession and attempted concealment of the firearm, along with related offences. Police list the charges as follows.
- Carrying a concealed weapon
- Careless use of a firearm
- Possession of a prohibited firearm
- Possession of prohibited ammunition
- Possession of a loaded firearm
- Possession of a firearm without holding a licence
- Unauthorized possession of a prohibited weapon
- Possession of a dangerous weapon
In addition, Jervis faces a charge of failing to comply with a release order.
| Accused | Age | Residence | Notable charge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Giovanni Jervis | 26 | St. Catharines | Fail to Comply with Release Order (plus multiple firearms offences) |
| Aireonna Wilson | 20 | St. Catharines | Carrying a Concealed Weapon (plus multiple firearms offences) |
Community and policing context
The seizure underscores patrols and cooperation between private security and police in the downtown entertainment district. Security personnel who reported the incident prevented what police say could have been a dangerous situation inside a crowded venue.
For residents and visitors, the incident is a reminder of ongoing public-safety efforts across Niagara Region. Downtown St. Catharines hosts a concentration of bars and nightclubs, particularly along streets such as St. Paul and nearby corridors, where policing and licensed security are used to manage risks during busy weekend hours.
Niagara Regional Police are seeking anyone with information related to the investigation to come forward. Tips can be provided directly to the police at 905-688-4111, option 3, ext. 1009865, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or via their website.
As the case proceeds, charges will be processed through the provincial court system. Police did not release additional details about the timeline for court appearances or any links to other incidents.
Local residents expressed relief that the weapon was detected by venue staff rather than discovered inside, a perspective shared by frequent patrons and small-business owners in the area who depend on safe nightlife for foot traffic and livelihoods. The partnership between licensed private security and police is likely to remain a focus for downtown businesses and municipal leaders as they balance economic activity with public-safety concerns.
Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact Niagara Regional Police or Crime Stoppers as listed above.
