Here’s a roundup of crime news from around Metro Vancouver and B.C. on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025
Alleged arsonist arrested in New West Tennis Club fire
Police in New Westminster have arrested a suspect in a fire last week at the New Westminster Tennis Club.
The suspicious fire that sparked at about 10:15 p.m. last Thursday left the building with “extensive damage,” said Sgt. Andrew Leaver on Tuesday.
The major crime unit of the New Westminster Police Department took over and, about 24 hours later, a suspect was identified. On Saturday, he was arrested after someone called about a suspicious person loitering near an underground parking garage.
“We are able to identify suspects and make arrests because community members provide critical information,” said Leaver. “That tip made all the difference.”
The tennis club and courts remain closed to the public until further notice, according to a statement on the website.
One suspect still sought in alleged kidnapping
A suspect is in custody after an alleged kidnapping attempt in Duncan last week.
North Cowichan-Duncan RCMP were alerted to a possible kidnapping near Queen’s Street on Feb. 19. A video from the area showed two men assaulting and forcing a third man into a vehicle.
Later that day, police spotted the vehicle while on patrol and a man was arrested, and the vehicle was seized.
The investigation continues, including attempts to identify the second suspect. The victim has been located safe.
A day after the incident, Jamie Peckett was charged with kidnapping, assault with a weapon, assault and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose. He is in custody until a court appearance on Wednesday.
Anyone with information is asked to call the local RCMP detachment at 250-748-5522.
Searches of two Prince George properties lead to arrests
An emergency response team searched a home and business in Prince George on Monday, leading to the seizures of drugs, guns and cash, and four arrests.
At about 3 p.m., Prince George RCMP and the north district emergency response team searched a residence in the 4100-block of First Avenue as part of a continuing investigation.
A related search of a commercial unit in the 400-block of George Street was conducted the same evening.
“Three people were arrested at the First Avenue residence and were later released pending the results of the full investigation,” said Cpl. Jennifer Cooper in a news release Tuesday. “One man was arrested from the commercial dwelling unit and is being held in custody until his next court appearance.”
Several firearms, a large amount of Canadian currency, suspected illicit drugs and paraphernalia were seized during the searches.
The investigation continues.
Extortion near-victim warns not to share sensitive images
A Nelson resident came to police this week after falling victim to an attempted online extortion after sharing intimate images.
“Cyber-extortion and scams are common and can have a devastating impact on their victims,” said Special Const. Silk Edwards of the Nelson Police Department. “It is important to learn about the techniques scammers use and protect yourself online.”
The victim joined an app that allows video chat with strangers around the world. During a video call, the victim shared sensitive images without knowing the suspect was recording the call.
The suspect threatened to send them to friends, family and workplace unless money was sent.
The victim stopped communicating and called police.
“Once scammers have sensitive material, there is no way to stop them from posting it,” said Edwards. “However, many scammers will stop once they realize they aren’t going to be able to bully their victim into paying, whereas sending money will likely lead to more demands.”
The victim wanted people to know the story so they can protect themselves online.
“Don’t be afraid to contact the police if it happens to you,” said Edwards.