By Dave Branco

When warning signs go unheeded: one resident’s breaking point with crime and mental health gaps

Feb 24, 2026 | 3:24 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – A longtime resident of Prince George has reached his breaking point regarding the way officials manage mental illness and criminal behaviour. Just last week, he was assaulted by someone he believes has a history of mental health issues as well as a criminal record. 

Resident Rob Cote is concerned that numerous warning signs are being overlooked, as authorities have yet to take any action or arrest the individual he claims attacked him.

Rob Cote recently recounted his experience with CKPG at a local Walmart, where he encountered a person he suspects is struggling with mental illness. He observed that this individual seemed to act without facing any consequences for their behaviour.

Shortly afterward, Cote found himself at the front of the store with some employees when he ran into the same person he had seen earlier in the aisle. That were he was hit twice with a bat by the person. To defend himself, he deployed bear spray toward the person. 

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While on the phone with the RCMP, Cote followed the person who assaulted him to an apartment complex. He noted that both he and the individual were arrested but released shortly thereafter.

Cote feels let down by the system, as this person was freed despite demonstrating aggressive behaviours linked to mental illness.