Probation for chasing another man with an axe
By Peggy Revell on August 22, 2017.
Medicine Hat News An axe-wielding man who chased his victim down the street to frighten him was sentenced to a year’s probation Monday at the Medicine Hat courthouse. The incident was described by both Crown and defence as “idiotic” and “alcohol-driven” — payback for a lovers’ quarrel of a friend. It was an attempt to scare the victim, not actually physically harm him, the court heard. The incident occurred on Sept. 5, 2016, when the victim was invited over to a residence by text message by a woman. Upon arrival, the 57-year-old homeowner jumped out wearing a gas mask and brandishing an axe over his shoulder, and chased the man down the street past a few houses. Ryan Bleile was originally charged with assault with a weapon, and possessing a weapon dangerous to the public, but pled out Monday to just the dangerous weapon charge, with the other charge withdrawn. As part of his probation, he is required to have no contact with the victim, complete substance abuse counselling, and abstain from alcohol. 7-6
