News release
Wanted man refuses to exit residence in Port aux Basques, arrested by Channel-Port aux Basques RCMP
July 10, 2025
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Port aux Basques, Newfoundland and Labrador
From: Newfoundland and Labrador RCMP
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Wanted man 44-year-old Leon Francis was arrested by Channel-Port aux Basques RCMP after a lengthy stand off yesterday afternoon at a residence in Port aux Basques.
At approximately 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, police attended a residence on Savoury’s Lane after learning that Francis was inside the home. Francis refused to exit and barricaded himself inside. An increased police presence, including RCMP Police Dog Services and RCMP officers from Channel-Port aux Basques and Bay St. George detachments, remained in the area while negotiations were conducted. Additional resources, including the RCMP Emergency Response Team and the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary’s Tactics and Rescue Unit, were engaged, however the incident was resolved prior to their arrival.
Following lengthy negotiations, shortly after 5:30 p.m., Francis exited the home and presented himself to police. He was arrested without further incident and was held in police custody overnight. His arrest warrant was executed and he appears in court today to answer to his outstanding criminal charges of:
- Criminal harassment – three counts
- Harassing communications
- Uttering threats – two counts
- Failing to comply with a release order – two counts
RCMP NL thanks residents in the area for their cooperation as police conducted their work yesterday.
RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.