Two arrested, charged thanks to Citizens on Patrol
By Kyra Hoggan
Two people have been arrested and charged after Citizens on Patrol caught the duo red-handed allegedly committing a break and enter, according to Castlegar RCMP Cpl. Debbie Postnikoff.
“On Sept. 28, at approximately 01:09 a.m., the Castlegar Citizens on Patrol (COP) were making their rounds when they came across a suspicious vehicle that was parked in the back yard area of a local tow company located in the 4000 block of Minto Road,” Postnikoff said. “The vehicle appeared to be parked in front of a hole that was observed in the fence to the property. COPs were quick in reporting their observations to Castlegar police as they believed a break, enter and theft were in progress.
“Castlegar Detachment members and West Kootenay Traffic Services arrived on scene and noted a female passenger inside this vehicle. Police determined that a male associated to this vehicle was on foot and believed to be inside the compound. Police Dog Services were called to the scene and the police dog was able to track down this male who was hiding on the property. The male sustained minor bite wounds from the police dog incidental to his arrest. A search conducted inside the vehicle revealed various break-and-enter tools that would assist in committing property crimes.”
Postnikoff said a 42-year-old Salmo man and a 26-year-old Salmo woman have been charged with Break and Enter with intent to commit an indictable offence and possession of break-and-enter instruments and have since been released on bail and placed on conditions. Their first appearance is scheduled for Nov. 10 at the Castlegar Court house.
“Citizens on Patrol are trained volunteers governed by the BC Crime Prevention Association who have a mandate to detect disruptive, suspicious and criminal behaviour. These volunteers act essentially as an extra set of ‘eyes and ears’ for the community. Should anyone be interested in joining the Castlegar Citizens on Patrol, they can contact the Castlegar RCMP Detachment at 250-365-7721.”
