By Chad Klassen

Robertson defence questions RCMP search tactics

Jan 28, 2016 | 8:08 AM

KAMLOOPS — Wednesday was day three in the BC Supreme Court trial of Jason and Sarah Robertson.

The Kamloops couple faces a total of 18 charges and is accused in a theft and drug ring connected to a massive bust two years ago.

In court, Sgt. Christopher Bannerholt described the events leading up to the searches on three separate properties, two of them owned by the Robertsons.

On May 7, 2014, RCMP intercepted a truck on its way to 100 Mile House transporting drugs allegedly connected to Robertson.

The next day, police obtained permission to conduct the searches at three properties, including a house owned by Robertson at 152 Arrowstone Drive.

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Bannerholt said 10 officers converged on the home, knocked and announced their presence “multiple times” for about a minute, then entered using a battering ram.

No one in the residence.

Inside, Bannerholt testified officers found cocaine and marijuana in furniture, thousands of dollars of cash, weapons, and stacks of TVs and laptops.

40 firearms were also seized.

During cross-examination Wednesday, defense argued Robertson has a gun license and questioned why police took even registered guns.

Bannerholt says they were seized because police believed all were stolen.

Defense, which is basing its case on a supposed violation of Charter rights during the searches, also questioned Bannerholt about the ‘knock and announce’ rule, arguing police didn’t allow enough time before entering. 

The trial is expected to last through next week.