SUMMERSIDE – A Summerside woman has been sentenced to 10 days in jail for interfering with police in the performance of their duties.
Melissa Mary Griffin got involved with two police officers while they were dealing with her sister at a residence.
Griffin grabbed one officer by the arm on two occasions and was cursing at her. When a second officer intervened, Griffin grabbed him and began uttering threats against the officer and his family.
Griffin was placed in a police cruiser where she smashed out a side window.
Before handing down the sentence, Judge Jeff Lantz said that a presentence report outlines a life of “challenges and struggles” for Griffin, particularly with mental health.
Lantz said he believed a time in custody was warranted to bring home the point to Griffin that she needs to deal with her issues and that the alternative could be a longer period in jail if she comes back before the court.
Lantz also noted that Griffin has a “trust issue” and needs to come to terms with that to help her get her life under control.
In addition to the jail term, Griffin was placed on 24 months probation and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $74.53 to the City of Summerside.
Griffin will be allowed to serve her sentence on weekends.
(TC Media)
