A Sunshine Coast man is facing numerous criminal charges including assault with a weapon after an incident in Sechelt early Sunday morning.
On July 27, a member of the Sunshine Coast RCMP attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a vehicle that failed to stop at a stop sign.
"The lights and sirens were activated on the police vehicle, but the vehicle did not stop and proceeded at speeds below the posted speed limit," said Sgt. Stuart Falebrinza. "The vehicle was not pursued by police."
Falebrinza said a short time later, two police units located the suspect vehicle.
"It was felt that the driver of the vehicle was going to stop, so one police officer exited the police vehicle and was struck by the suspect vehicle, which was making a quick U-turn," Falebrinza said. "To avoid being thrown to the ground, the police officer grabbed onto the side of the vehicle and was taken approximately 24 metres by the suspect. At this time, the police officer let go of the suspect vehicle and fell to the ground."
He said the suspect vehicle drove into the ditch and became stuck. The lone male occupant of the truck was arrested and is facing charges. Police have not released the man's name as he has yet to be formally charged.
Falebrinza said alcohol was a factor in the incident and the driver did not have a valid driver's licence.
