Man in Coquitlam charged with break-in, coughing on police
Posted April 8, 2020 4:04 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
COQUITLAM (NEWS 1130) — A 24-year-old man was arrested Monday in Coquitlam and charged with breaking into a home and coughing on police.
Tyson Helgason was arrested after a break-in at a home on Ashurst Avenue, near Mundy Park, according to Coquitlam RCMP.
“We strive to be respectful even during an arrest, and with the new reality of COVID-19, we ask everyone that we’re speaking with if they feel sick or have any symptoms,” Cpl. Michael McLaughlin says in a release.
In this case, McLaughlin adds, the suspect confirmed he was sick when asked.
Despite being told not to face police, McLaughlin says the suspect allegedly turned his head towards three officers and coughed in their faces.
An elderly couple was home at the time of the break-in — during which a window was broken with a rock — but were unaware someone had entered, police say.
Jewellery and a small amount of cash were recovered.
RCMP say Helgason has been charged break-and-enter, assaulting a police officer, and theft under $5,000.
He also faces an additional charge for an unrelated theft, police say.
Helgason has been remanded in custody. His next court appearance is April 15.
