Trying to escape custody nets alleged NDCU robber five months in jail
By Nelson Daily Staff
The alleged robber who evaded police for weeks was sentenced to five months in jail Tuesday in Nelson Provincial Court after a botched escape attempt from a deputy sheriff in September.
Andrew Stevenson, 34, was handed a five month sentenced by Judge Don Sperry.
The sentence was one month longer than crown and defence agreed to for escaping lawful custody.
Stevenson, and co-accused Krista Kalmikoff, are charged in the robberies of the Nelson and District Credit Union, Kootenay Savings in Castlegar, Johnny’s Groceries in Robson, and Kootenay Currency Exchange in Nelson.
Stevenson, who was not shackled due to being on crutches from an injury suffered during the arrest following the Nelson and District Credit Union robbery, was en route to appear in court with a BC Sheriff when he bolted from a side door.
He threw off his crutches and ran several blocks before being tackled by the BC Sheriff just off Vernon Street a few blocks from the courthouse.
Stevenson appeared via video link from jail in Kamloops, still using his crutches.
He was also ordered to pay a $100 victim surcharge within 60 days.
Stevenson and co-accused Krista Kalmikoff have preliminary hearings scheduled for January 28 and 29.
