Broadcast Time: 10:15 am Date: January 11th, 2024
On the 10th of January 2024, members of the Sarnia Police Services Operations Division entered into a weapons investigation after being contacted by a citizen that a male party could be seen swinging a hatchet in downtown Sarnia yesterday afternoon. Officers arrived within the vicinity of the complaint and located a male party matching the description provided by the caller. The male party initially refused to adhere to the direction of the officers as they attempted to de-escalate the situation as it became apparent that the accused in this matter was experiencing a mental health episode. The officers then approached the male party and placed him under arrest after a brief struggle. No injuries were sustained as a result of the arrest.
During the investigation, officers located several knives and a pair of brass knuckles in addition to the hatchet that the accused was seen swinging around. The male party was held for bail and shall be referred to the mental health court.
Mental Health courts are a key function of our judicial system as they ensure that each person going through the process receive the appropriate supports and services they need during the court process. Oftentimes, the supports and services provided during the court process carry over into daily lives well past their proceedings. The objectives of mental health court are to improve the well-being and overall health of the person, improving community safety, reducing recidivism, and developing better access to mental health care and services.
The Sarnia Police are thankful for citizens who are vigilant and report incidents that threaten public safety. As a reminder, please do not approach anyone bearing weapons or behaving suspiciously. Please contact police.
Acting Staff Sergeant Miro Soucek #191
Operations Division
Tel: 519-344-8861 ext 0