Patrice Blais-Lacoursière Pleads Guilty to Weapon Charges and Obstructing Justice
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Trois-Rivières, QC – Patrice Blais-Lacoursière, 36, has pleaded guilty in the Trois-Rivières courthouse to charges including possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose, resisting arrest, violating a ban on consuming toxic substances, and obstructing justice. The charges stem from an incident earlier this year involving a chainsaw purchase and the harboring of a wanted relative.
Details of the Arrest and Charges
The incident began when Blais-Lacoursière’s mother reported him to the police,concerned about his mental state after he borrowed her car to visit a store on Boulevard Saint-Maurice.She indicated he was in a state of psychosis and drug use. police quickly confirmed a transaction involving a chainsaw. Locating the vehicle near Saint-Maurice and Saint-Paul, officers prepared to intervene.
Did You know? Taser use by police has increased by 20% in the last five years, according to a 2024 report by the Bureau of Justice statistics.
According to court documents, Blais-Lacoursière was uncooperative and expressed a desire for the police to shoot him. He was eventually subdued using an electric pulse weapon, and a chainsaw was found in his vehicle. The events unfolded on February 13, 2025.
Obstructing Justice: Harboring a Wanted Cousin
In addition to the weapon-related charges, Blais-Lacoursière also pleaded guilty to obstructing justice. He admitted to harboring his cousin, Maxime Blais-Lapierre, who was wanted by police in connection with a sequestration and assault case from early 2025. Blais-Lapierre was eventually apprehended on February 13 on rue Sainte-Angèle following a tip from the public.
Blais-Lacoursière claimed to have been living at the residence since December and told police he knew his cousin was wanted but allowed him to stay out of kindness for two or three weeks. He also admitted to possessing cocaine and violating other court orders.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
Judge Annie Vanasse ordered a pre-sentence report. The case is scheduled to return to court on October 27 for sentencing. The prosecution is led by Me Marc-André Bordeleau.
Pro Tip: Understanding the charges and potential penalties is crucial in any legal case. Consult with a legal professional for personalized advice.
Past Legal Issues
Blais-Lacoursière has a history of criminal activity. In April 2019, he was accused of attempted murder against his mother. He later pleaded guilty to charges of sequestration and serious assault, resulting in a 48-month prison sentence, which was reduced to 28 months after considering time served.
Case summary
| Charge | Details |
|---|---|
| Possessing a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose | Involved a chainsaw and confrontation with police. |
| Resisting Arrest | Uncooperative during police intervention. |
| Obstructing Justice | Harbored a wanted cousin, Maxime Blais-Lapierre. |
| Drug Possession | Admitted to possessing cocaine. |
Understanding Obstruction of Justice
obstruction of justice refers to actions that impede or hinder the administration of justice in a legal system. These actions can range from tampering with evidence to intimidating witnesses or harboring fugitives. Penalties for obstruction of justice vary depending on the severity of the offense and the jurisdiction, but they frequently enough include fines, imprisonment, or both. The Department of Justice provides further data on federal laws related to obstruction of justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a pre-sentence report?
A: A pre-sentence report is a thorough document prepared by a probation officer that provides the court with background information about the defendant,including their criminal history,personal circumstances,and potential risk factors. it assists the judge in making an informed sentencing decision.
Q: What is an electric pulse weapon?
A: An electric pulse weapon, such as a Taser, is a non-lethal device used by law enforcement to temporarily incapacitate a person by delivering an electrical shock that disrupts muscle control. The effectiveness and safety of these weapons are subjects of ongoing debate and scrutiny.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with a qualified legal professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.
What are your thoughts on the use of electric pulse weapons by law enforcement? How can communities better support individuals struggling with mental health and substance abuse?
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