Sussex man facing weapons charges after pursuit
A Sussex man is facing multiple charges after a high-speed chase on Dec. 30.
According to the RCMP, an officer in Sussex recognized a vehicle of interest on O’Connell Avenue at approximately 7:50 p.m. on Dec. 30.
As police approached the vehicle, the driver fled at a high rate of speed.
The RCMP said in a statement that the driver hit two different unoccupied vehicles before his own vehicle became disabled on Marble Street.
The 41-year-old male driver attempted to flee on foot but was quickly arrested.
Police found a sawed-off rifle and a machete in the man’s vehicle.
The man appeared in Saint John provincial court on Dec. 31.
He was charged with the following:
- Dangerous operation of a vehicle
- Flight from a peace officer
- Obstructing a police officer
- Unauthorized possession of firearms, weapons, or prohibited devices in a motor vehicle
- Unauthorized possession of a firearm
- Possession of a firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized
- Two counts of mischief over $5,000
The man was remanded into custody and was scheduled to have a bail hearing on Friday.
“This apprehension by our officers, and the fact that the individual remains in custody, greatly enhances public safety in the Sussex area,” said Sgt. Ben Comley. “Our members acted quickly and effectively, and their work has helped prevent further risk to the community.”
Anyone who may have witnessed, or any person or business with any video footage of the collisions or erratic driving, is asked to call the Sussex RCMP at 506-433-7700 to further their investigation. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.
