Warfield principal praised for de-escalating potential conflict when Trail man trespasses, behaves erratically
By Rossland Telegraph
A Warfield educator is being lauded by police for de-escalating a potentiall dangerous situation at Webster Elementary last Friday, according to Trail RCMP NCOIC Sgt. Mike Wicentowich.
“On Feb. 12 at 8:39 a.m., Trail and Greater District RCMP received a disturbance report after a man wandered into the Webster Elementary School located at 395 Schofield Highway in Warfield,” Wicentowich said. “The man, who was reportedly acting erratically, wanted to deliver an impromptu presentation at the school and started to partially disrobe after being confronted by the principal.”
Wicentowich said the principal prevented the incident from escalating and escorted the man outside of the school.
“Trail RCMP front line officers responded immediately to the school and arrested the man. Trail RCMP believe the man may have had been suffering from a mental health issue and been under the influence of a substance,” Wicentowich added.
“The Trail RCMP held the 34-year-old Trail man in police custody until he was sober. He has not been formally charged at this time, and will continue to be monitored in the community.
“The Trail RCMP would like to recognize Webster Elementary School, Principal Brian Stefani, for his bravery and professionalism in handling of the incident until police arrived on scene.”
