Cyclist charged in connection to assault of police officer: SPS

Source: Sarnia Police Service.

A man has been charged in connection to the assault of a police officer in Sarnia.

On Saturday around 7:30 a.m., a police officer saw a cyclist near Devine Street and Brock Street South, going southbound on a snowy road, against the flow of traffic.

The officer put on his lights, stopping the cyclist, speaking to him through the passenger window of the cruiser.

The Sarnia Police Service said the suspect tried to pedal away, but the police officer moved the vehicle to prevent that.

The suspect allegedly then ran across a snowbank to the sidewalk with his bike, trying to flee once again. The officer got out of the vehicle and a chase ensued, leading to the arrest of the cyclist.

The SPS said the man tried to fight with the officer and a firearm fell from the suspect. Upon the sighting of the gun, the police officer deployed his Conducted Energy Weapon, which was partially effective.

The man continued to fight arrest. The police service said physical strikes were needed to restrain the suspect until more officers arrived on scene.

Once the man was in custody, a search resulted in two knives that were readily accessible at his waist, as well as a small bag of suspected fentanyl. Police determined the firearm that fell from the man was a replica BB gun.

“The presence of these concealed weapons in this incident could have easily resulted in a very different and tragic outcome,” said Chief Derek Davis.

“The investigating and backup officers did an exceptional job of quickly bringing this person into custody, despite the violent resistance they faced. I am relieved that no officers were injured and commend them for their actions.”

The 29-year-old man of no fixed address now faces charges for assaulting a police officer, three counts of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, three counts of carrying a concealed weapon, possession of a firearm contrary to a prohibition order, failure to comply with a release order, and possession of a schedule one drug.

The suspect was taken to hospital by ambulance, treated for his injuries, and released. No officers were hurt in the altercation.