Cpl. Jeff Witzke
Columbia Valley RCMP
On February 14, police were dispatched to the hospital to assist in dealing with a patient who was suffering with some mental health issues. The patient had locked themselves in an unlocked vehicle in the parking lot.
Upon members attendance, the person of interest was now in the hospital lobby displaying odd behaviour, however, not deemed a threat to themselves or others.
Hospital staff and police attempted to locate other places for the person to stay but the individual eventually was given a bed at the hospital for further assessment.
Early next morning on February 15, members were called back to the hospital to deal with the same person who had walked away from the hospital. Extensive patrols were made, however, the person was not located. At approximately 9 a.m. the police received a report of an unknown female stealing a garbage truck that had backed into a vehicle causing damages. The owner of the damaged vehicle was able to prevent the suspect from leaving while police were en route. The suspect was arrested for theft of a motor vehicle and driving while prohibited.
On the evening of February 16, the RCMP were made aware of a person loitering around a gas station when they brandished a large kitchen knife. Members promptly attended and arrested the suspect without issues. In speaking with staff, the suspect pulled out the knife and asked one of them if they would like to use it for cutting some meat. The knife was seized and the suspect was lodged in a cell without charges since no threat was made during the incident.ww
