Just after midnight last evening, a dropped 9-1-1 call was received form a residence in the 3800 block of Merriman drive. Multiple Saanich Police officers attended the residence for the second time that evening. Located nearby, Integrated Road Safety Unit officers arrived to assist.
Officers were met at the door by an intoxicated male resident. At first, he presented himself with only his left side visible. Meanwhile in his right hand, which was obscured from view, he held a large kitchen knife.
The male then presented the large knife to officers and took an aggressive stance. Officers drew their firearms and a conducted energy weapon. Despite many orders to drop the knife the male suspect refused.
Officers advanced on the male who tried to close the door on them. The fear was that his mother was still inside the residence and that she was at risk of harm. At a moment when the suspect turned his attention towards his mother who was behind him, a Saanich Police canine handler lashed out and struck the male in the side of the head. This led to a physical struggle with the suspect who was secured on the ground and handcuffed.
No injuries were suffered by any officer, the suspect or his mother. A total of four knives were seized from the residence as evidence.
The 20 year old suspect was arrested and held in custody. Suggested charges of assault with a weapon and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose have been prepared.
The male, who has a history with local police, will appear in Victoria Provincial court today.
12-9111