On August 20, 2009, at approximately 3am, Russell RCMP members were investigating trespassers on the grounds of the Russell swimming pool.
A traffic stop ensued after a suspicious vehicle was observed in close proximity to the facility. Its occupants were determined to be connected to the trespassing incident.
While the five suspects were being questioned by police, verbal threats were made against the lives of two RCMP officers. The situation quickly escalated to the point where the suspects became combative with police. One passenger assaulted a police officer, hitting him in the face. He was pepper sprayed by police in an attempt to subdue him. However, as the two police officers attempted to control the four remaining subjects, this suspect escaped.
Assisted by the Dauphin RCMP Police Dog Unit, additional RCMP officers from Waywayseecappo First Nation and Russell RCMP Detachments located and arrested the remaining four occupants of the vehicle at the Russell Inn.
An adult male was arrested for uttering threats, obstructing a peace officer and remains in police custody. The three other suspects were released without charge after questioning.
The suspect at large surrendered at Russell Detachment early this afternoon. Various charges are pending against the adult male, among them, assaulting a peace officer.
Alcohol was a contributing factor and police continue to investigate.
Both who will be facing charges are residents of WayWayseecappo First Nation.
The RCMP officer involved did not suffer serious injuries. He was treated and released at the local hospital.
Sgt. Matt Lavallee
Russell RCMP Detachment
(204) 773-3051
