4 arrested for firearm, extortion offences: N.S. RCMP

The RCMP logo is seen outside the force's 'E' division headquarters in Surrey, B.C., on Thursday, March 16, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck (DARRYL DYCK)

RCMP in Nova Scotia arrested four people after a firearm was used in the commission of an extortion in Green Creek Thursday afternoon.

Police said officers responded to a report that four people, one in possession of a firearm, attended a property in the community and demanded money from a group of people in the house around 1:00 a.m.

“Two of the people at the property were then directed into a vehicle with two of the four suspects and made to drive to an ATM for more money,” read a Saturday news release from the RCMP.

Police said they located the vehicle at a gas station in Stewiacke, where they arrested two people, a 19-year-old Musquodoboit Valley man and a youth. The victims did not report injuries. The firearm previously observed was not in the vehicle at this time.

Investigators identified the two other suspects and arrested a man and woman at a residence on Highway 2 in Shubenacadie around noon. Investigators also executed a search warrant at this residence and seized items supporting the investigation, police said.

Brian Barr, 47, of Truro, is charged with eight offences including extortion with firearm, kidnapping, and robbery with firearm.

Kaley O’Hara, 36, of Shubenacadie, is charged with extortion with firearm, kidnapping, utter threats, and possession of a weapon for dangerous purpose.

Barr and O’Hara remain in custody pending scheduled court appearances on December 15 at Truro provincial court.

The 19-year-old man and the youth were released on conditions pending upcoming court appearances.

Investigators said they believe this was not a random incident and all people involved are known to each other. Police said they are not seeking additional suspects.

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page