A 24-year-old Coquitlam man suspected of a break-and-enter is facing additional charges for allegedly coughing on three police officers during the arrest.
Tyson Helgason was apprehended by the Mounties’ prolific target team on Monday an hour after a break-in occurred in the 2500-block of Ashurst Avenue. According to the Coquitlam RCMP, the suspect said he was sick at the time and deliberately coughed in the direction of three officers.
“We strive to be respectful even during an arrest, and with the new reality of COVID-19, we ask everyone that we’re speaking with if they feel sick or have any symptoms,” said Coquitlam RCMP Cpl. Michael McLaughlin. “In this case, the suspect confirmed with police that he was sick when asked. Despite being told not to face police, he allegedly turned his head towards three officers and purposefully coughed in their faces.”
The elderly victims of the theft were home at the time of the break-in, however police said they were not initially aware that a crime had taken place. Investigators were able to recover several pieces of jewellery and a small amount of cash that had been taken from the home.
Helgason is facing a charge of break and enter and theft under $5,000. He will also face an additional count of assaulting a police officer.
His next court appearance is on April 15.
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