RCMP arrested one man and seized a significant amount of firearms and stolen property in Lac La Hache, in what they say is related to an escalation of property crimes.
The Cariboo Chilcotin Crime Reduction Unit, with the assistance of Williams Lake Police Services Dogs and the 100 Mile House RCMP detachment, has been investigating a rise in property crimes over the last month.
Last week, the 100 Mile RCMP were investigating a series of break-and-enters, in which a red Ford pick was seen on CCTV footage at two of the crime locations.
Police arrested Terrance Southern, the lone occupant of a vehicle they observed parked outside of a business in Lac La Hache on Oct 20. Police confirmed the vehicle was a recently stolen 1999 red Ford F-350 from Williams Lake.
When police boxed the vehicle in, they say Southern attempted to flee by striking a police vehicle and building, then proceeded to flee on foot.
Sergeant Brian Lamb of 100 Mile House RCMP says Southern was apprehended by police after a brief foot pursuit.
“Upon search of the male[Southern], a handgun and additional magazines were found concealed on his person. A significant amount of suspected stolen property, which included firearms from recent property crimes in 100 Mile House and Williams Lake, was recovered.”
Lamb said Southern was held for a bail hearing at the time of his arrest, but has since been charged and remains in custody until a court date.
Southern has been charged with offences which include: Possession of a Prohibited Firearm with Ammunition; Possession of a Firearm contrary to a Prohibition Order; Possession of Ammunition contrary to an Order; Dangerous Operation of a Conveyance; and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000.
“Police are anticipating further charges for several additional offences,” Lamb added. “Police are continuing the investigation, which will include identifying owners of property seized and its return.”
Lamb says the description of the red Ford that Southern was using possibly matches the description of the trucks used in other crimes last week.
“There could potentially be further individuals, maybe not associated with this person[Southern],” says Lamb. “But we’ll continue to take proactive initiatives to ensure people like this are being held responsible.”
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