P.E.I. Premier Wade MacLauchlan has expressed his appreciation for RCMP and provincial security officials after criminal charges were laid in relation to alleged threats made against him.

In a news release, the premier also said he’s confident in the justice system and its ability to consider factors such as psychiatric assessments and to ensure an appropriate response from the court.

The premier, who has received a number of messages from supportive Islanders, added “I am thankful for the support shown to me; this is an unfortunate situation for everyone involved.”

Richard Leonard Wright, 49, from Hunter River was arrested last Wednesday after allegedly making online threats against MacLauchlan, who was sworn in as the province's new premier last week.

In addition to facing a charge of making threats, Wright was also charged with possessing firearms without a permit and possession of marijuana.