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By Victor Kaisar

Police Incident

Woman facing numerous charges after Wednesday raid at Merritt house

Apr 12, 2025 | 1:26 PM

MERRITT — Police in Merritt say a local woman has been charged with several offences, including unlawful confinement and assault causing bodily harm, after a raid on a home on Wednesday (April 9) afternoon.

In a statement, Merritt RCMP say Kristal Poirier was taken into custody where she remains ahead of a virtual bail hearing scheduled for Monday, April 14.

Police say they were called to the Merritt Save-On-Foods Wednesday where a man told them that he had escaped from a nearby house in the 2000-block of Clapperton Avenue “after being there against his will.”

“With the assistance of the RCMP Southeast District Emergency Response Team and Police Dog Services, numerous individuals were extracted from the residence and taken into custody,” the RCMP statement said.

“It was determined that two victims had been held in the residence and were confirmed safe.”

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The RCMP also said that two schools in the area – Merritt Central Elementary and Merritt Secondary – were put on a Hold and Secure as a precaution, though they also note that “at no time, was anyone in any school building in danger.”

“The Merritt RCMP are very thankful for our partners at School District 58. Lockdown and Hold and Secure protocols are practiced just like a fire drill would be,” Merritt RCMP spokesperson Const. Blake Chursinoff said.

“Both schools followed the protocols very well.”

Police say Poirier was charged on Thursday (April 10) with two counts each of unlawful confinement, uttering threats, assault with a weapon, and assault causing bodily harm.

They also note that a search of the house led to the seizure of “a large quantity” of illicit drugs, prohibited firearms, cash and firearm manufacturing equipment.

“Additional charges may be recommended as the investigation evolves,” the RCMP statement said.

People with information connected to this incident are being asked to contact the Merritt RCMP Detachment at 250-378-4262.