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Coquitlam break-and-enter suspect intentionally coughs on police

A man suspected of a break-and-enter in Coquitlam is facing a series of charges, including assault for allegedly deliberately coughing on police officers.

Tyson Helgason was arrested after a break-in at a home in the 2500-block Ashurst Avenue on Monday, police said.

Click to play video: 'Commercial break-ins increase during COVID-19 crisis'
Commercial break-ins increase during COVID-19 crisis

RCMP said he told them he was sick, and officers told him not to face them due to concerns over COVID-19.

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Helgason allegedly turned his head towards three officers and intentionally coughed in their faces.

He has been charged with break and enter, theft under $5,000, and assaulting a police officer.

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An elderly couple was home at the time of the alleged break-in, police added, and they were not aware that a crime had taken place. Police recovered some jewelry and a small amount of cash.

Helgason has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on April 15.

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