A homeowner in the 6800-block of Casabello Drive made a call to Chilliwack RCMP early in the morning on April 18 to report a prowler in the backyard of the residence.  Frontline police officers supported by the Lower Mainland District Integrated Police Dog Section (IPDS) immediately arrived at the address where investigators also located a vehicle, reported stolen to Chilliwack RCMP, abandoned in the middle of Casabello Drive.   

Police service dog Lucy searched the area and the suspect was located hiding in a camper in the 46000-block of Stevenson Road and arrested.  During a search of the suspect, officers seized evidence allegedly linking the suspect to the stolen vehicle and stolen identification.

Nickolas David Lafontaine, 21, of Kelowna is charged with fail to comply with recognizance, theft of motor vehicle, possession of break-in instrument, possession of stolen property, possession of an identity document, and break and enter.

Lafontaine remains in custody pending a court date in April.

“An alert resident immediately reporting suspicious activity, timely police response, and police service dog Lucy are responsible for the apprehension of the suspect,” said Cpl. Mike Rail on Tuesday. “Our dedicated officers are on the road in our efforts to ensure the safety of the community.”

RCMP remind everyone who witnesses anything they believe to be suspicious in nature to contact the Chilliwack RCMP at 604-702-4611 or, should they wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).