Public appeal by New Westminster Police for video footage in suspected child luring

THE New Westminster Police Department is appealing to the public to assist in providing CCTV footage or dash cam footage that may help in an investigation of suspected child luring.

The incident occurred on Sunday, November 21 at approximately 5:30 p.m. in the area around Sapperton Park.

The call to police came after two boys were walking home from Sapperton Park. It is alleged that as the boys passed a parked, brown minivan, a man exited the passenger seat of the van. This man asked the boys if they’d like to see a puppy that was inside his van. The boys ran away to tell a trusted adult about it.

The suspect is described as a white, between 45 years and 55 years of age, with a medium build and a short beard.

“We’re asking anyone who lives or drives through the area to please check to see if they have footage of the Sapperton Park area on November 21 between 5 and 6:30 p.m., specifically of Sherbrooke Street and Fader Street,” said Sgt. Sanjay Kumar. “Investigators have been approaching local businesses in the area for footage and we are inviting the public to contribute any possible evidence they may have.”

If you believe you have CCTV or dash cam footage of the location at the time specified above, you’re asked to download it and call Constable Dynes at the New Westminster Police Department referencing file number 21-18600.