POLICE – Dog walker confrontation turns violent, suspect arrested and charged

A Kamloops man is facing charges, including assault, after a dispute between dog walkers allegedly turned violent.

On Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023, around 6:50 p.m., Kamloops RCMP officers were called to Westsyde’s Centennial Park on Sandalwood Drive for a dog walker who had been allegedly assaulted, and another who was reportedly threatened.

“Officers quickly arrived on scene, located, and arrested a suspect nearby,” said Cpl. Crystal Evelyn, Kamloops RCMP spokesperson. “He remains in custody awaiting a bail hearing scheduled for today.”

Benoit Jean Charron, 40, of Kamloops, is charged with one count of assault by choking, suffocating, or strangling; two counts of assault; and attempted theft.

Anyone who witnessed or has information related to this investigation is asked to contact the Kamloops RCMP detachment at 250-828-3000 and reference file 2023-33299.