ON August 20, the New Westminster Police Department responded to a 9-1-1 call from someone who stated they were witnessing what they believed to be a break-and-enter in progress. Officers immediately responded to the Sapperton neighbourhood to search for the suspect.

Moments later, another call to 9-1-1 stated that someone matching the same description of the first suspect was trying to steal a scooter nearby. Officers attended the scene and the suspect was safely taken into custody. The Integrated Police Dog Service assisted police. The New Westminster Police Forensic Identification Services conducted a forensic analysis of the scene and evidence.

Wesley Speikermann, 50, of North Vancouver has now been charged with break-and-enter, one count of theft Under $5,000, and obstruction of a police officer.

“We would like to thank the witnesses who knew to call 9-1-1,” said Sgt. Sanjay Kumar. “They provided timely and helpful information that allowed our officers to arrive on scene and make an arrest. This is an excellent reminder to every New Westminster resident that if something doesn’t seem right about a situation you are observing and you believe it is a crime in progress to call 9-1-1.”

For information on how to best secure your property, reach out to the Crime Prevention Coordinator for more information at 604-529-2528 or crimefree@nwpolice.org.