Sarnia man charged after police say he threw a fit about an encampment

Sarnia police say a 31-year-old man from the city has been charged after he was unhappy about a small encampment being erected behind a business last week.

Authorities say it happened the night of May 9 between Confederation Street and Michener Road.

According to police, the accused called them with the concern — then took "matters into his own hands" when he wasn't happy with the response time from officers.

"The male armed himself with a machine gun style airsoft gun, and began shooting pellets in the direction of the encampment," said police in a statement — adding no one was hit or injured.

Police say the accused is charged possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, criminal harassment and driving while under suspension. (Sarnia Police Service)

When they did arrive on the scene, Sarnia police say a man got in his truck and began driving "erratically," squealing tires and flashing his lights at them.

"He abruptly parked, entered his shop, and refused to come out. Police secured the perimeter and maintained communication with him," police say.

He eventually surrendered to officers around two hours later

Police say the accused is charged possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, criminal harassment and driving while under suspension.