A man charged in an August knife-wielding incident in Nanaimo has pleaded guilty and will serve additional jail time before being released to a residential support home.
Kym Robert Arkell, 32, who suffers from Klinefelter syndrome, causing cognitive difficulties, faced charges of possessing weapon for dangerous purpose, uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm and assault with a weapon following an incident on Aug. 24.
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A pair of Nanaimo’s Police Dog Service members approached Arkell in the area of Beban Park, as he had outstanding warrants, and Arkell pulled out a an eight-inch knife, threatened the officer and ran in the direction of Altrusa playground with police in pursuit. Arkell turned to face an officer with the knife and not only threatened the officer, but also asked the officer to shoot him.
Arkell was taken down by a second officer, but wouldn’t drop the knife. He refused to obey orders of the officers and as a result, they had to use force. He continued to struggle and was subsequently taken to hospital after suffering a punctured lung. He told police he had a pipe bomb, which turned out to be a cellphone.
Arkell also pleaded guilty charges related to a June 25 incident in which he broke into a home and was seen leaving with tools and cartons of cigarettes, and an Aug. 2 incident in which he threatened a couple in the Parkwood Drive area with bear spray.
During sentencing, it was revealed that Arkell had troubles with drug abuse since he was 10, although he is on medication to mitigate the addiction.
Arkell has been in custody since the Aug. 24 incident, and Judge J. Douglas Cowling sentenced him to an additional 21 days in jail.
Following his prison sentence, Arkell will be released to Carmichael Enterprises facility in Nanaimo, where he will reside and receive supervision.
Arkell will also be subject to conditions, including a curfew, 50 hours of community service within six months and he must not consume alcohol or drugs unless it’s a medical prescription.
reporter@nanaimobulletin.com
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