Richmond RCMP have laid multiple charges against a man who allegedly assaulted police officers, including a police service dog on May 7.
Andrew Jongbloets has been charged with seven offences, including injury to a law enforcement animal, two counts of assault police officer with a weapon, discharging an air gun with intent to wound or prevent arrest, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and use of an imitation firearm while committing an offence.
On May 7, at approximately 2:28 a.m. Richmond RCMP responded to a 9-1-1 call from a man in distress. The man’s location mapped to rural farmland in the south east of No. 4 Rd and Westminster Highway. Officers attended the location, and with the assistance of the Lower Mainland Integrated Police Dog Service (IPDS), a track was established into the area.
Officers located the man and attempted to engage to ensure his safety and the safety of the public. During the encounter, the man produced and randomly discharged an airgun as well as stabbed the Police Service Dog (PSD). The PSD sustained multiple puncture wounds and was transported for emergency veterinary care, which is ongoing. Following the initial assessment, the dog remains stable and recovery appears favourable.
The suspect initially fled into a wooded area but was ultimately located, arrested and transported to a local area hospital where he was treated for minor injuries.
This was a fluid and dynamic situation that unfortunately resulted in injuries to PSD Rebel. We are pleased that Rebel will make a full recovery, but this demonstrates the inherent risks our officers face in the line of duty in pursuit of public safety,
says Superintendent Julie Drotar, Acting Officer-in-charge of Richmond RCMP.
