On Wednesday February Sixteenth 2011 at 2024 Hours, a male entered the front lobby of the New Westminster Police Service asking for police assistance. The male, a Forty-Four old New Westminster resident, complained of experiencing emotional health issues and requested a member transport him to Royal Columbian Hospital. A police officer was assigned to transport the male as requested.
Upon arriving at Royal Columbian Hospital, the patrol officer exited his police vehicle and opened the backdoor for the male. The male got out of the vehicle walked a few feet and then turned back towards the officer and suddenly pulled out a large knife that he had concealed in his clothing. The male began walking forward, the officer un-holstered his sidearm and gave the suspect orders to drop the knife. The suspect failed to comply and continued walking towards the officer. The officer repeated commands to the suspect and simultaneously radioed for police assistance. Fortunately, the suspect eventually complied and dropped the knife. The suspect was handcuffed and arrested without further incident.
The accused, a Forty-Four year old New Westminster resident was arrested and held for court. Police are recommending charges of assault with a weapon and breaching probation conditions.