The Belleville Police Service says “Bax,” a member of its canine unit, was instrumental in helping find a firearm in a backyard bush. /BPS photo
A 33-year-old Quinte West man is facing break-and-enter and firearm-related charges after Belleville police say they responded to a call about an unwanted man entering a residence while allegedly in possession of a handgun.
According to the Belleville Police Service, on May 30, at about 2:30 p.m., police responded to a west-end residence following the report, but the suspect allegedly fled the residence on foot.
After obtaining a description of the accused and a direction of travel, police said containment was set up while a search for the suspect followed.
The suspect was reportedly located a short distance away and arrested without incident.
At the time of arrest, the accused was not in possession of a handgun, reported police. Believing that the suspect had discarded the gun while running from the residence, the service said its canine dog – “Bax”– was brought in to help search for the firearm.
Police allege a 9mm pistol was later found in a backyard in a bush.
As a result of the investigation, police said 33-year-old Kyle Labarge, of Quinte West, was charged with break and enter with intent to commit an indictable offence, possession of a firearm contrary to a prohibition order, tampering with a serial number on a firearm, pointing a firearm, knowledge of unauthorized possession of a firearm, unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, careless use of a firearm, and firearm – while committing an offence.
None of these charges have been proven in court.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
