On July 6, 2024, Smiths Falls Police responded to a disturbance on Helen Street.
A male suspect, Ben Duhamel, had broken into a neighbor’s house. During his arrest, Duhamel kicked an officer in the face and resisted. He was held for bail but released with conditions by a Justice of the Peace the next day. Fortunately, neither the neighbor nor the officer were injured.
On July 8, 2024, police were called again for an incident involving Duhamel. He assaulted another neighbor and threatened their life. Upon police arrival, Duhamel fled but was captured and arrested for assault and uttering death threats. Despite these charges, he was again released on bail the next day.
Shortly after midnight on July 11, 2024, another disturbance on Helen Street involved Duhamel in yet another altercation. He now faces 12 charges, including assault, trespassing, and breach of his release orders. Duhamel, 35, is currently held for another bail hearing.
“This is a prime example of why police continue to advocate for tougher bail reforms,” said Constable David Murphy of the Smiths Falls Police. “We need stricter bail conditions for the safety of our community.”
