News release
Woman charged after police execute search warrant on Merritt residence
April 11, 2025
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Merritt, British Columbia
From: Merritt RCMP
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File # 2025-1555
Kristal Poirier has been charged with numerous offences after Merritt RCMP executed a search warrant at a residence in the 2000 block of Clapperton Ave. in Merritt, BC.
On Wednesday April 9, 2025 police were called to the Merritt Save-On-Foods and told by a male that he had escaped from a residence on the 2000 block of Clapperton Ave, after being held there against his will. With the assistance of the RCMP Southeast District Emergency Response Team and Police Dog Services, numerous individuals were extracted from the residence and taken into custody. It was determined that two victims had been held in the residence and were confirmed safe.
Local schools in the area were also alerted of a police incident in the area, and as a precautionary, were placed on a Hold and Secure protocol to ensure the safety of staff and students in the school buildings. At no time, was anyone in any school building in danger.
"The Merritt RCMP are very thankful for our partners at School District 58. Lockdown and Hold and Secure protocols are practiced just like a fire drill would be. The Hold and Secure protocol was put into place in an abundance of caution for students and staff within Central Elementary and Merritt Secondary. Both schools followed the protocols very well. Throughout this incident, no one within the school buildings were in danger", says Cst. Blake Chursinoff of the Merritt RCMP.
On April 10, 2025 Kristal Poirier was charged with Unlawful Confinement (x2), Utter Threats (x2), Assault with a Weapon (x2) and Assault Causing Bodily Harm (x2) that morning and remains in custody.
After Kristal was charged, the Merritt RCMP and Forensic Identification Services executed a search warrant of the residence and located a large quantity of illicit drugs, prohibited firearms, cash and firearm manufacturing equipment. Additional charges may be recommended as the investigation evolves.
Kristal Poirier remains in custody and has a virtual bail hearing scheduled on April 14, 2025.
The Merritt RCMP are requesting anyone with information regarding this incident to speak with them at 250-378-4262.
Contacts
Media Relations Officer
Merritt RCMP
blake.chursinoff@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
250-378-4262