Employee in Quesnel assaulted with knife while trying to stop shoplifter

An arrest has been made in Quesnel after an employee was stabbed while trying to stop a man from stealing.

RCMP Sergeant Richard Weseen says they were called to Bumper to Bumper Auto Parts on Tuesday.

“Employees observed a man attempting to steal items by concealing them in his jacket. When the employees attempted to stop the man, an altercation ensued. During the scuffle, one of the employees received cuts to both his hands and one ear after the male produced a knife,” said Weseen.

Weseen says they had members just a block away when the 911 call was received.

A 37-year old Quesnel resident, James Peter Alexander Halverson, known to police, was taken into custody without incident.

Weseen says Halverson was bound by a number of court conditions after previously being released from custody.

“On February 18, 2021, it is alleged that Halverson attempted to steal a drill from Eagle Home Building Centre. When employees attempted to stop him, Halverson is accused of producing a knife and threatening staff,” he said.

Halverson was also arrested on March 9  for assault causing bodily harm and uttering threats.

He remains in custody until a court appearance scheduled for March 16.

He is facing charges of robbery, assault causing bodily harm, uttering threats, theft under $5,000, and failing to comply with release orders.

-Files from George Henderson, MyCaribooNow