Merritt Police Files – March 26, 2021

Merritt man sentenced after brandishing a knife in June 2020

A Merritt man has been sentenced after brandishing a knife in a incident last year.

“On June 9, 2020, the Merritt RCMP received a 9-1-1 emergency call from a concerned citizen, driving with his children down Voght Street, as he was being followed by an intoxicated male suspect in a vehicle,” said Sgt. Josh Roda.

The suspect had brandished a knife at the victim and his children. The incident was said to be un-provoked.

“Police located and arrested Mr. Jackie Adams minutes after the 9-1-1 call was received,” added Roda. “Charges including assault with a weapon and possess a weapon for a dangerous purpose were approved by the Crown against Mr. Adams.”

Last week, Crown Counsel stayed the assault with a weapon charge as Adams plead guilty to possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

“He received a Conditional Discharge, Probation for 1-year and had to pay a Victim Surcharge of $100,” said Roda.

Merritt man charged criminally with impaired driving

Two charges have been approved against a Merritt man following an impaired driving incident early this year.

“On February 1, 2021, police received multiple reports of a possible impaired driver in the downtown area of Merritt BC. Witnesses followed the suspect to his residence, where he was ultimately arrested by police,” said Sgt. Josh Roda.

The BC Prosecution Service approved two charges against Mr. Cole Bangsund of Merritt, including impaired operation of a motor vehicle and impaired operation while over 80 BAC.

“He is set to appear before the Merritt Law Courts on April 6, 2021,” said Roda.