**** RCMP Media Release
RCMP charge vessel operator for multiple offences
Meteghan RCMP has charged a man for dangerous operation of a vessel and other criminal offences that occurred in St. Mary’s Bay.
On October 30, a Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) vessel was operating in St. Mary’s Bay a platform for Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) operations. A fishing vessel was following the CCG vessel as patrols were conducted by fishery officers. The fishing vessel crossed dangerously close to the bow of the CCG vessel, resulting in the captain of the CCG vessel having to take evasive action to avoid a collision.
The fishing vessel continued to follow and obstruct the CCG vessel as operations continued. The operator of the fishing vessel began threatening fishery officers who were aboard a smaller vessel that had been working in the same area with the CCG vessel. The operator continued to obstruct and threaten fishery officers, ultimately resulting in the CCG vessel withdrawing from St. Mary’s Bay.
On November 9, police arrested a 37-year-old Indian Brook man without incident. The man was released on conditions and will appear in Digby Provincial Court on January 14, 2022. The man will be facing charges of Obstructing a Peace Officer (6 counts), Uttering Threats, and Dangerous Operation of a Vessel.
The Nova Scotia RCMP is prepared to take action as necessary to protect public safety, should there be criminal activities that pose a threat to the safety of individuals or property. Violence is criminal and will not be tolerated.
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is responsible for managing Canada’s fisheries and enforcing the Fisheries Act. For specific, fishery-related questions please contact DFO.
