At 3:42 a.m. on February 15, 2020, an alert security guard contacted the Richmond RCMP after observing a male allegedly breaking into a vehicle parked in a secure parkade. Frontline officers of "Delta" watch acted quickly, surrounding the parkade and conducting systematic patrols to locate the individual.
Officers located a suspect sitting inside a vehicle he had allegedly just broken into. In addition, several other vehicles in the parkade were found with smashed-out windows.
The BC Prosecution Service has approved two charges against a 44-year-old Richmond man who is known to police.
Kent James Armstrong has been charged with:
1) 1 count of break and enter with the intent to commit an indictable offence, contrary to Section 348(1)(a) C.C.C.; and
2) 1 count of mischief not exceeding $5000, contrary to Section 430(4) C.C.C.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, and more charges may be forthcoming.
"This is another example of how even though your vehicle may be parked in a secure lot, it can still broken into," says Constable Kenneth Lau. "Thanks to alert actions of the security guard and the quick response of frontline officers at the scene, we arrested the individual and limited any further damages. If you see anyone acting suspiciously who may not belong in the area, contact the police immediately."
Thief breaking into vehicle to steal valuables
Tips to help prevent thefts from vehicles:
Wait and watch until the gate of your parkade closes when entering and exiting;
Do not leave any valuables or even change in your vehicle;
Contact the police to report suspicious persons or activities.