Multiple charges laid after property damaged, police assaulted
The Calgary Police Service has laid 13 criminal charges in connection with an incident where a residence in McKenzie Towne was extensively damaged, a police vehicle was rammed and three police officers were assaulted.
At approximately 8:30 p.m., on Sunday, Jan. 3, 2016, police were called to a residence in the northern portion of McKenzie Towne after a truck drove through the door and rear wall of the home’s detached garage. It is believed that the driver then exited the vehicle with a crowbar and used it to cause extensive damage to the inside of the house, including smashing windows, destroying appliances and making holes in the walls.
The occupants inside the home were able to escape without injuries.
A short time later, police located the truck driving near the intersection of Deerfoot Trail and Barlow Trail S.E., and attempted a traffic stop. The driver rammed the police vehicle before driving away.
The truck was later located at a gas station at the intersection of 64 Avenue and Centre Street N., and was followed to a residence in the 1000 block of Berkley Drive N.W., where K9 and patrol officers arrested the suspect. During the arrest, three police officers and a member of EMS were assaulted. A hunting knife believed to belong to the suspect was also found at the scene.
Police believe this incident to be the result of a domestic conflict as one of the occupants in the McKenzie Towne home had previously been in a relationship with the suspect.
Brian Joseph RUSSELL, 28, of Calgary, is charged with two counts of assaulting a peace officer, one count of assaulting a peace officer with a weapon, one count of assault, one count of possession of a weapon, two counts of break and enter, two counts of hit and run, one count of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, one count of mischief causing danger to life, one count of theft under $5,000 and one count of possession of break-in instruments.
RUSSELL is scheduled to next appear in court today, Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2016.
The Calgary Police Service always encourages anyone that is experiencing abuse or violence in an intimate relationship to reach out for help. There are countless agencies ready to offer support that can be contacted by calling Connect Family & Sexual Abuse Network at 403 -237-5888 (Toll Free: 1-877-237-5888), the 24-hour Family Violence Helpline at 403-234-SAFE (7233), or 211.
Victims of domestic violence can also contact the Calgary Police Service anytime by calling the non-emergency line at 403-266-1234, or 911 if they are in immediate danger.
Case # 16004002/4861