A Dawson Creek man accused in an alleged stabbing is now in custody after being denied bail, in a case that is adding to ongoing concerns about repeat offenders in British Columbia.
Brandon Badger was denied bail and will be remanded at the Prince George Regional Correctional Centre. His next court appearance is scheduled for June 18.
Badger had previously been released on bail earlier this week in connection to the alleged stabbing, but is accused of breaching his conditions shortly after his release. Police say he was taken back into custody on Thursday following the issuance of an arrest warrant.
He now faces additional charges, including alleged breaches of probation.
Alleged stabbing
The charges stem from an incident Monday morning in Dawson Creek. RCMP say officers were called to the 9300 block of 8th Street after reports someone had been stabbed and the suspect fled the area.
The victim was taken to hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening.
Badger is facing multiple charges, including assault with a weapon. At the time, police say he was already bound by court-ordered conditions, including a prohibition on possessing weapons.
Concerns over repeated breaches
According to court information, Badger has allegedly breached court-ordered conditions numerous times in the past.
Crown prosecutors had opposed his earlier release, identifying him as someone who may qualify under a repeat violent offending initiative. Despite that submission, a judge granted bail with conditions earlier this week.
Following that release, Badger is accused of breaching his conditions within hours, prompting further charges and a new arrest.
Court records show a recent pattern of alleged non-compliance, including failing to attend a scheduled court date in late May and outstanding warrants prior to this week’s arrest.
Broader debate on bail reform
The case is contributing to ongoing debate about bail reform and repeat offenders across British Columbia.
Critics, including B.C. Conservative attorney general critic Steve Kooner, say changes are needed to address what they describe as prolific offenders repeatedly being released into communities.
The provincially run B.C. Prosecution Service is reviewing the earlier bail decision to determine whether further action is possible.