A Harrison Hot Springs man was caught breaking into an apartment on Esplanade on Monday, leading to a stand off and the use of police dogs.

Police were called for a break and enter in progress after a witness said she saw a man walk to the back of an apartment building and gain entry to a top floor, unoccupied penthouse.

The Police Dog Service was also brought in, and a perimeter was set up around the building. The 39-year-old man barricaded himself in the unit, and then police heard a window break.

The man was arrested after escaping through the back.

“Situations like this can be very dangerous for police,” said Cst. Tracy Wolbeck.  “We have no idea going into that situation if the person is armed, and if so with what. The potential for harm in a case like this is astronomical.”

The suspect, a 39 year old Harrison Hot Springs man was to appear in court this week to face a charge of break and enter.

news@ahobserver.com