Thursday, March 28, 2024

Man who drove over Central Saanich police cruiser found guilty on multiple charges

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The suspect accused of driving over a Central Saanich police cruiser last year has been found guilty on multiple charges.

In 2021, Johnathan Pocetti of Victoria was wanted on several outstanding warrants related to Central Saanich Police and VicPD investigations.

On August 31st of last year, a Central Saanich police officer attempted to stop Pocetti’s at the Co-op gas station on West Saanich Road for a traffic violation.

When the officers attempted to stop Pocetti to speak with him about the infraction, he reversed his truck away from the officer’s police vehicle into a curb in front of the gas station building.

The officers used his patrol car to block the truck’s exit, however, Pocetti drove the truck onto the hood of the police cruiser then pushed it aside before fleeing the scene.

Police said the impact pushed the cruiser backwards, narrowly missing a gas pump and causing further damage to the gas station’s property.

“Central Saanich Police would like to thank our policing partners across the CRD as well as the public for assisting with our investigation,” said Community Engagement Officer Constable Tristan Gentile.

“This coordinated approach led to the apprehension of the accused as soon as possible.”

Just before 10 p.m. on September 22nd, 2022, the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team (GVERT) conducted a high-risk vehicle arrest of Pocetti using a distraction device at the intersection of Bay and Blanshard Streets.

Photos from the scene last year show a vehicle with its windows blown out and a large heavily armed police presence.

Pocetti was taken into custody without further incident. (Carmen Lamberg)

Pocetti was taken into custody without further incident and there were no injuries during that incident.

Police say Pocetti was found guilty of assault police with a weapon, dangerous driving, flight from police, mischief, and driving while prohibited.

According to reports, Pocetti will not serve any additional jail time following the time he has already served.

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Victoria Buzz Staffhttps://www.victoriabuzz.com
Your inside source for Greater Victoria happenings. Established in 2012.

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