B.C. man jailed for one month over seatbelt investigation, false identity

SURREY, B.C. – A 57-year-old Vancouver man has spent almost one month in jail partly because he failed to identify himself to police who were investigating a seatbelt infraction during a recent traffic stop.

The man’s legal problems began Dec. 13 when police say they stopped a vehicle for traffic offences on Highway 99 in Delta, B.C.

Police say officers asked the rear passenger to identify himself for an alleged seatbelt infraction, but the man gave a false name and continued to maintain a false identify.

The man was arrested for obstruction of a peace officer and was taken into custody where he continued to maintain a false identity, even though police say they were able to confirm who he was.

In court Dec. 19, the man refused to acknowledge his identity or co-operate with officials, and police say he allegedly made threats against personnel.

Police say Douglas Nikkel of Vancouver has been charged with failing to wear a seatbelt, obstructing a peace officer, obstructing justice, uttering threats and is scheduled to appear in court again Thursday.