In what Nanaimo RCMP Const. Josh Grafton calls one of his toughest tracks ever, he, Const. Tanner Fowler and canine partner Jager pursued a suspect for two hours through foot-deep snow, freezing water and steep terrain.
The incident began Feb. 16 at the Deadwood Creek Campsite, near Nanaimo Lakes Road, when the owners of a cabin found a man and a woman inside. The owners alerted the RCMP and started to walk the intruders to the campsite’s main gate to await officers’ arrival.
The man produced a can of pepper spray and used it to create a diversion to get away. The woman did not flee.
Police began tracking the man as soon as they arrived. Since there was limited cellphone and radio coverage in the rural area, additional officers and search-and-rescue personnel were called in to assist.
A man was arrested and treated in hospital for dog bites.
David Banford, 39, has been charged with two counts of assault with a weapon and break-and-enter. His next court appearance is scheduled for March 5.
A 29-year-old woman was released on a promise to appear in court on May 17.
