Man charged in connection to rescue vessel vandalism

CITYnews halifax / By Mark Hodgins

Halifax RCMP have laid charges against a man allegedly involved in the vandalism that saw significant damage done to a rescue boat.

St. Margaret’s Marine Search and Rescue said its vessel was slashed along the inflatable tubes on its side by a man apparently caught on CCTV footage carrying a large knife. The incident was believed to have happened sometime early on Tuesday morning.

In an update Thursday afternoon, the RCMP now confirms the suspect in the incident turned himself in to police later that day.

Andrew Joseph Cullen, 57, is now facing several charges.

Police allege Cullen slashed the tires of a pickup truck in Port Hawkesbury on Monday morning before making his way to the Hubbards and Tantallon area. Police said threats were made over the phone to people known to Cullen.

The Marriotts Cove man was in a Halifax court on Wednesday and was expected to make another court appearance Thursday.