Kawartha Lakes police have stood by their decision to charge a homeowner with assault following a confrontation with a man who had reportedly broken into his home in Lindsay.
According to investigators, they were called to an apartment on Kent Street around 3:20 a.m. on August 18 due to reports of a disturbance.
The resident of the apartment awoke to find an unknown man inside his home. A physical altercation ensued, resulting in the intruder sustaining severe, life-threatening injuries. He was promptly airlifted to a hospital in Toronto.
The homeowner, a 44-year-old individual from Lindsay, now faces charges of aggravated assault and assault.
The alleged intruder, a 41-year-old man also from Lindsay, was already wanted by authorities prior to the incident. He is now confronted with additional charges, including possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, break-and-enter, theft, mischief under $5,000, and failure to comply with probation.
In response to the widespread public interest and emotional reactions stirred by the case, Kawartha Lakes Police Chief Kirk Robertson issued a statement defending his officers’ actions against the backlash.
Robertson emphasized that thorough examination of all available information and evidence was conducted before charges were laid, with only a limited amount of details being disclosed to the public.
“Under Canadian law, individuals retain the right to protect themselves and their property. However, it is crucial to recognize that these rights are not boundless in Canada. The law stipulates that defensive actions must be proportional to the perceived threat,” Robertson stated. “While homeowners are entitled to safeguard themselves and their property, the level of force used must align with the circumstances.”