Slew of charges for four people after attempted break-in

HARRISTON – Four people are facing numerous charges after an attempted break-in at a home here last week.

Wellington County OPP officials say officers responded to a call about “individuals … attempting to break into a home” on Arthur Street West in Harriston on Nov. 3 at about 6am.

Police “located the suspects and seized a firearm,” police stated in a Nov. 6 press release, noting four people were arrested and held for bail court.

Johnathon Lawrence Jessop, 40, of Brockton, Rebecca Lee Doreen Ruelens, 29, of Priceville, Samanth Lee Ann Webb, 28, of Owen Sound, and Jonathan Jason Barger, 28, of Owen Sound, were all charged with:

  • possession of loaded prohibited or restricted firearm;
  • occupying a vehicle knowing it contained a firearm;
  • unauthorized possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm;
  • carrying a concealed weapon;
  • possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose;
  • mischief (destroys or damages property);
  • break and enter a dwelling with intent to commit an indictable offence; and
  • possession of a firearm knowing its serial number has been tampered with.

Jessop was also charged with possession of weapon and obstructing a peace officer. 

Ruelens and Barger each face an additional charge of failing to comply with a release order (other than to attend court), while Webb is charged with driving while impaired by alcohol and drugs.