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A family from Vancouver Island is grappling with shock and fear after a recent home invasion, especially in light of the suspect’s release on bail.
The individual in question, 32-year-old Robin Nicholas Wakeling, faces multiple serious charges, including assault with a weapon, making threats to cause death or bodily harm, and breaking and entering.
On Tuesday, a judge in Nanaimo granted him bail set at $500, accompanied by several release conditions.
The alarming incident occurred in Parksville early on March 25, when Wakeling used a vehicle to break through the family’s garage around 1:40 a.m.
Once inside, he reportedly armed himself with a chain and forced entry into the home. One victim, who has chosen to remain anonymous for safety concerns, recounted a harrowing experience: “He managed to overpower me, looked to see what was going on, he had a chain wrapped around my neck. I managed to pick the fellow up, drop him on the ground, get on top of him, choke hold move and hang on for dear life … The only thing he kept saying to me was ‘I’m going to kill you. I’m going to kill you,’ over and over and over.”
Law enforcement agencies have indicated that the assault appears to have been random, with no known ties between Wakeling and the victims.
As part of his release conditions, Wakeling must maintain a distance of 100 meters from the victims’ residence, comply with a curfew from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., and refrain from possessing any weapons or knives.
Additionally, he has been mandated to undergo a psychiatric evaluation and attend all necessary appointments with healthcare professionals.
Elenore Sturko, BC Conservative public safety critic, voiced her support for the victims, acknowledging the family’s fear. “I really do hope that an assessment is made and if this individual needs supports, that they get it,” she noted. Sturko also criticized the government for its failure to offer sufficient resources for those with underlying mental health issues that may lead to criminal behavior, including housing, ongoing support, and access to counseling.
Wakeling’s mother spoke briefly to the media, calling the situation “sensitive” and declining to offer further comment.
Wakeling is expected to appear in court again on April 29.
Source
globalnews.ca