By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

Bear spray used on Nanaimo RCMP officer and dog in takedown

May 10, 2017 | 3:29 PM

NANAIMO — RCMP officers involved in a violent takedown had to contend with more than just a scared suspect.

An officer and his service dog were bear sprayed around 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 6 after chasing a man wanted for allegedly shoplifting at Woodgrove Mall and then breaking into a house off Metral Dr.

RCMP Cst. Gary O’Brien said it was a challenge taking the “obviously high” suspect into custody.

“They fought through it and there was quite a violent struggle involving another officer.”

O’Brien says it isn’t uncommon to see bear spray be used as a weapon.

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“(Our officers) are always expecting it, but at the same time it’s a real devastating impact when the bear spray comes on to them. All they can do at that point is continue to move and try to distract the individual and take him into custody the best they can.”

The suspect is still in custody after a bail hearing, but charges haven’t officially been laid so his name can’t be released.

O’Brien said he’ll face charges of assaulting a police officer, possession of a weapon, theft under $5,000, break and enter, possession of a controlled substance and at least two breaches of probation.

In the altercation, the suspect did suffer some minor injuries which required stitches.

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