March 17, 2022

The Nanaimo RCMP is investigating an early morning fire that caused extensive damage to the Departure Bay Activity Centre, located at 1415 Wingrove St. After thoroughly examining the scene, fire investigators have since turned the investigation over to police after deeming the blaze as suspicious.

Fire crews were on scene shortly after 5:30 AM and found the structure fully engulfed in flames. The building was not occupied at the time and there was no reported damage to nearby buildings or injury to individuals. The gymnasium portion of the building sustained significant fire damage, while the adjacent parking bay which held the Salvation Army Emergency Food truck, suffered only smoke damage.

“You would be hard pressed to find anyone in the Nanaimo area who hasn’t attended an event or activity at this hall. It’s a landmark building which as served the citizens of Nanaimo well for over 60 years”, said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.   

Investigators are asking if anyone saw a person or vehicle in area between 5 am to 5:45 AM on Thursday March 17, 2022, or if anyone has security camera or dash cam video, to please call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2022-8997.

Fence around housing complex on Terminal Avenue.

The Nanaimo RCMP is investigating a single vehicle collision in which a vehicle crashed into a fence surrounding a supportive housing complex on Terminal Ave. The crash occurred just before 10 AM on Tuesday March 15, 2022, in the 200 block of Terminal Ave.

The vehicle involved, an older model Chevrolet Cavalier, was the same vehicle that officers had attempted to stop just minutes earlier in downtown Nanaimo for a minor traffic violation. The driver of that vehicle refused to stop and fled from police at a high rate of speed. Given the speed involved, the time of day and the amount of vehicle and pedestrian foot traffic, the officer did not attempt to stop the vehicle. It was noted though that the suspect driver then proceeded to drive through two stop signs until police lost sight of the vehicle.

 Approximately five minutes later, the same vehicle was reported to have crashed into a fence on Terminal Ave, and that the driver was seen running from the scene. A woman remained at the scene who was later determined to be the registered owner of the vehicle involved. This individual was less than forthcoming with officers when asked who was driving the vehicle.

 Police Dog Services attended but due to the volume of foot traffic in the immediate area, a track could not be established. The vehicle sustained significant damage and was towed from te scene. The fence will be repaired.

“Given the speeds involved and the subsequent crash, it is fortunate that there were no reported injuries, “said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

If anyone has information on this incident, they are asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2022-8767.

Sarah Rekrut

Nanaimo RCMP have conducted an exhaustive search but have been unable to locate 34-year-old Sarah Rekrut.

Rekrut was reported missing by her family on March 2, 2022. Since that time police have focused their efforts in the Nanaimo area. On Friday March 11, 2022 Rekrut was spotted in south Nanaimo on Bruce Ave. Police responded promptly to this report but were unable to locate her.

Several reports have since been received of a female resembling Rekrut in the area of John Barsby School, which is located on Seventh St at Bruce Ave. The reports said that a woman resembling Rekrut, was seen wearing a pink jacket with brown fur around the collar. Investigators have been unable to independently verify this information.

Rekrut is a Caucasian woman, 5 ft.5 in., 125 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. If anyone has information on her whereabouts, please call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2022-7175.

March 15, 2022

Two teenage sisters were hit withbear spray Monday afternoon when a stranger burst into their north Nanaimo home just before 3 p.m. in the 5200 block of Lost Lake Road.

The sisters wisely ran from the home to a nearby residence, after coming face to face with the intruder. Police, including Police Dog Services were on scene within minutes but could not locate the suspect. It appears the suspect entered the home through an unlocked door. A hockey bag was found missing which investigators believe was used by the suspect to carry some electronics from the home.  The suspect was wearing a balaclava that covered much of his face, and was dressed in camouflage clothing.

The sisters were treated by attending BC Paramedics for the lingering effects of the bear spray then released to their parents. 

“This was a brazen incident that took place in the middle of the afternoon. This may actually assist in the investigation as someone could have seen the suspect entering or leaving the home. Additionally, there are several vigilant Block Watches in the area who will obviously assist police with their investigation” said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP. 

Homeowners are asked to check their vehicle dash-cam video and home security cameras from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM on Monday for anyone appearing to resemble the description of the suspect or of any vehicles in the area that seemed out of place.

If you have information on the incident, please call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2022-8688.

Victim being treated by paramedics.

A Nanaimo man continues to struggle after being knocked unconscious by an egg thrown from a passing vehicle. The incident occurred at approximately 10:45 PM on February 25, 2022, on Uplands Drive near the Edgewater Lane turn off. 

Police arrived to find the 37 year old victim being attended to by paramedics who transported him to the Nanaimo hospital for treatment. 

Police spoke with his friends who were with him prior to the incident. All three, including the victim, were standing at the bus stop on the west side of Uplands Drive. At one point a small dark colored vehicle drove past and an object was thrown from a side passenger window. It struck the victim in the head and he fell to the ground. Only then did they realize that the object thrown at them was an egg.

The victim has limited memory of the incident and continues to have some difficultly with his thought process. He has agreed to have his picture released showing him being treated. 

“We believe the person who throw the egg probably didn’t intend to cause injury and may have no idea what actually happened. With that in mind, this individual and those in the vehicle, need to step up, take responsible for their actions and call the police”, said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo.

 If anyone has information on this incident, please call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2022-6661.

March 10m 2022

First-degree murder and Indignity to Human Remains charges have been laid in the disappearance of 33-year-old Sidney Mantee. Paris Laroche, 26, has been charged after a two-year investigation. BC Prosecution Service approved charges March 9.

Laroche was arrested March 9 and remains in custody. She was scheduled to appear later today in Nanaimo Provincial Court.

The investigation required significant time and police resources. In the weeks and months following Mantee’s disappearance, investigators exhaustively searched several locations, and followed up on dozens of tips in order to gather evidence related to the homicide.

Police ask that the families involved be afforded privacy. Also, given that this matter is now before the courts, no further information will be released.

The Nanaimo RCMP is investigating a scam in which a Nanaimo couple lost almost $400,000 in a Readers Digest Sweep Stakes Mega Millions lotto scam.

The scam started in early 2021 when the couple, who are both in their late 80’s, answered a phone call. The caller said he was working for Readers Digest and that he was calling to notify them that they had won $18.5 million, and a Mercedes- Bens. He told them that in order to receive their winnings, they must first pay a “few” administrative fees.

Several days later they received official looking documents in the mail from what appeared to be the Internal Revenue Service. The documents indicated they owed taxes on their winnings, and that they were directed to contact Mega Millions in order to arrange payment.

Every week the scammers faithfully called and directed them to make payments by cash, through money orders, in order to pay the outstanding taxes on the winnings, and to cover the storage fees of the Mercedes-Bens. Bank drafts were drawn and delivered by mail to various addresses. Throughout the year, the couple made cash payments of almost $400,000.

“The financial loss the couple experienced is significant and is certainly one of the largest we have seen in Nanaimo. It also goes to shows that if fraudsters believe they have convinced you of their legitimacy, they will not stop until essentially there is no more money to give or you figure out it is a scam,” said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

To find out more about current frauds being perpetuated in your community and elsewhere check out the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre 

Sarah Rekrut

The Nanaimo RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 34-year-old Sarah Rekrut, who was reported missing by her family on March 2, 2022. Investigators were told by her family that they have not had any contact with Rekrut for almost 2 years.

Investigators have confirmed that the last confirmed sighting of Rekrut was on January 16, 2022, in central Nanaimo. Prior to that, Rekrut was seen a number of times in May of 2021 in downtown Nanaimo. Currently it is unknown where she is residing.

Rekrut is a Caucasian woman, 5ft. 5, 125 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. The picture provided was taken in 2021 and her appearance may have changed since then. If anyone has information on the whereabouts of Sarah Rekrut, please contact the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2022-7175.

March 9, 2022

A local man is hoping for a miracle after he lost an envelope that contained several thousand dollars. The 71-year-old man believes the envelope was lost on either Thursday March 3, or Wednesday March 4, 2022. somewhere in Nanaimo.

He told police he withdrew the money from his bank on March 3 and recalls placing the money in an envelope and then in a pocket of his jacket. He told investigators he took several taxis on the days in question and has called both taxi companies with no success.  

“The victim realizes it’s a shot in the dark but he is hoping that a Good Samaritan may have found his money and will do the right thing and turn it in to the local RCMP detachment", said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

If anyone has information on the lost money, please call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2022-7936.

Ava Brown

Nanaimo RCMP are asking for help to find 15-year-old Ava Brown, of Nanaimo, who was last seen walking into the ferry terminal at Horseshoe Bay. Based on information police have received, it is believed she arrived at Departure Bay, but may have left with an unknown person. 

Efforts to locate Ava have not been successful and, given her age, her family and caregivers are worried about her well-being.

Brown is 5-foot-6, 115 pounds and has black hair with auburn roots, brown eyes and was last seen wearing a cream-coloured hoodie, Air Force 1 sneakers and had her hair tied in a bun. Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345 and quote file No. 2022-7585.

Last year, Nanaimo RCMP worked in collaboration with the City of Nanaimo as well as Vancouver Island University’s Criminology Practicum Students to conduct 6 Neighborhood Safety Audits. In total, 746 residents and businesses partook in the program voicing concerns that helped implement effective strategies to reduce crime and increase public feelings of safety.

Neighborhood Safety Audits allow residents and businesses to have an opportunity to share their experiences and perceptions of crime in their neighborhoods. These types of audits are being used increasingly across North America and have been effective in engaging residents and reducing fear and frustration around community safety concerns and supporting resiliency.

This project will benefit neighborhoods in a variety of ways. By allowing residents to voice their experiences with neighborhood crime, residents will be able to directly influence the direction of the project. This will help to create a stronger cooperative relationship between these neighborhoods and the Nanaimo RCMP. It will also help create familiarity amongst members of these neighborhoods, as they work together to identify crime in their area. Findings from a Safety Audit can help police and decision makers identify priorities and incorporate crime prevention measures that can directly target these areas, leading to safer and healthier neighborhoods. 

The data collected from the Safety Audits provides a real-time snap shot of safety issues that are impacting the participating neighborhoods. In turn, it allows us, to address the real issues, instead of what the police perceive the issues to be, said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

This year’s project will again be headed by the Nanaimo Community Policing Program with the support of Criminology Practicum Students and the Nanaimo RCMP. Over the next coming months, residents of the Diver Lake and Vancouver Island University Neighborhoods will be engaged through an online survey and a physical audit of the most challenging areas identified in the neighborhoods. This data will then be analyzed to identify issues in that community and the potential strategies that can be implemented to create positive change and increase community resilience.

The safety audits shed light on unreported issues in the community and give opportunity for police to fully understand the impact of crime on communities and their residents. This allows for implementation of the most effective and efficient strategies tailored to that neighborhood, Audits are dependent on community involvement so it is highly encouraged that if you live in the Diver Lake or Vancouver Island University areas to voice your concerns and experiences.

For more information or to get involved please email at Christy.wood@nanaimo.ca 
The following link provides information on the 2021 Neighborhood Safety Audits

March 2

A bag full of wrapped gifts was turned into the Nanaimo RCMP detachment on Saturday. The finder told police the bag was located that day in the parking lot of the Beban Park Recreation Centre. The Paw Patrol gift bag contained several small wrapped gifts, one of which was partially torn open to reveal a child’s toy.

The gifts were most likely intended for a child’s birthday party and for unknown reasons, it ended up being left in the parking lot. The bag and contents were in good shape so they most likely had  only been in the parking lot for a short period of time, said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

If you have information on this gift bag, please call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2022-5709.

Nanaimo RCMP seek help in locating 42-year-old Nicole Anderson who was reported missing to the Nanaimo RCMP, on February 24, by a concerned family member who has not seen or heard from her in over two months. Anderson is dealing with some personal struggles. Her family is aware of this but for her to have no contact for such and extended period of time, is out of character for her. As a result, her family is concerned for her safety and well-being.

Anderson is a Caucasian woman, 5 ft. 7, 110 pounds with blonde hair and blue eyes. The picture provided is recent. Based on evidence obtained to date, investigators believe Anderson is currently in Nanaimo.

If anyone has information on the whereabouts of Nicole Anderson, please call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2022-6529.

Chris Chesnic

UPDATE The Nanaimo RCMP report that 35-year-old Chris Chesnic seeks public assistance in locating 35-year-old Chris Chesnic, who was reported missing Tuesday has beern located. His family told investigators that Chesnic recently made some comments that were considered to be troubling. As a result, they are extremely concerned for his personal safety and well-being.

Chesnic may be in the vicinity of Langford and driving a red 2009 Ford F150 pickup with BC plate NV9977. Chesnic is a Caucasian man, 5 ft. 11, 190 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. The picture provided is recent. Of note, Chesnic has a tattoo of a skull on his upper right arm and one of a dog on his upper left arm.

If anyone sees Chris Chesnic, call 911. If you have information on his whereabouts, call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2022-6263.

220213 - The investigation continues into the discovery of body on Saturday 12 at approximately 9 am, inside the Buzz Coffee House, at 4890 Rutherford Rd. An individual located and arrested inside the business remains in police custody.

The business remains closed while forensic investigators examine the scene. Additionally, investigators from the Nanaimo RCMP Serious Crime Unit have also carried out two search warrants in connection to the homicide. 

“Investigators are confident that based on the evidence collected to date, there was no connection between the deceased and the individual arrested at the scene, and that this was a random incident with a tragic outcome, “said Reserve Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

To assist with the investigation, police are asking for anyone who may have arrived at the business between 7 am and 9 am, on Saturday February 12, 2022 and saw anything that may be considered suspicious, to please contact the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line, and quote file # 2022-4898.

22-02-03 – Nanaimo RCMP warns residents and businesses about three scams that have popped up in the new year.

Fake “Flexiticards” –  January 20, a computer retail store in Nanaimo reported that a suspect(s) had purchased multiple Mac Pro books using fraudulent “Flexiticards”.  Flexiti is a Canadian company that allows clients to buy online or in-person with retailers in the Flexiti Network.

Credit Card Investigative Unit – On February 2, a Nanaimo resident reported he received a call from someone pretending to work for the Mastercard Investigation Unit.

He was told his Mastercard had been compromised and that he needed to purchase pre-paid credit cards to help catch those responsible. The man complied and provided the card numbers, expiry dates and security codes to the thief.  He told police that as he was buying the cards, staff warned him that he might be the victim of a scam.
On the advice of his friends, he called the police, but it was too late, and the thief had used the funds on the pre-paid cards.

Microsoft Alert – February 2, a Nanaimo resident reported that his computer froze, and a Microsoft alert appeared on the screen. Then a warning that someone was attempting to steal a large sum of money out of his bank accounts. A "helpline" phone number appeared on the screen, and he called for assistance. He spoke to someone who said they were fixing the problem but gained total control over his computer. The fake technician told him that he could appease the hackers by purchasing gift cards for them. Realizing he was being scammed,  the owner turned off his computer. He went to his bank to ensure his accounts were secure, and although the fraudster had changed all the passwords, no one had removed any money from the accounts. The owner then had his computer wiped clean by a computer specialist.

"It can happen to any of us," said Cst Sherri Wade with the Nanaimo RCMP. "We are busy; we click on a link that we shouldn't, we give personal information to people who are skilled in tricking us. I encourage people to go to the "Canadian Anti Fraud Center" website. The website provides up to date information on the most recent scams, how to protect yourself and if you become a victim of a scam, how to report it."

22-02-03 – Nanaimo RCMP is seeking the public's assistance in identifying a suspect in an armed robbery at the 500 block of Fifth street on January 26. 

At 9 pm that day, The Nanaimo RCMP responded to a robbery with a weapon at the 500 block of Fifth Street, Nanaimo. The caller reported that the suspect had entered the business, pointed what appeared to be a handgun at an employee, stole money and lottery tickets and then fled.  

The suspect was described as approximately 40 years old, 5'6" tall and wearing a black ski mask and a blue coat.

Police responded quickly, but they did not apprehend the suspect.

Cst Shirri Wade said "it was extremely upsetting for the employees. Fortunately, no one was injured, and our Police-Based Victim Services personnel are working with anyone who the crime had impacted." "The 500 block of Fifth street is a busy area, and if you were driving by or walking in the area at approximately 9 pm on Jan 26 and saw someone matching the clothing description of the suspect, you may have valuable information that could assist the investigation.”

If you have information that may help to identify this suspect, please call the Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345 and reference file 2022-2949.

Trevor Loffler

UPDATE - RCMP report that 30-year-old Trevor Loffler of Nanaimo has been locted.

Earlier report - He is 5'6, 146 lbs, with short black hair, a goatee and brown eyes.

The night of January 29, Trevor was with his family at the family home. He was given a ride to 2114 Meredith Road, and no one was spoken to him since.
Trevor was last seen wearing a short, black puffy jacket, jeans and white and red shoes, and may be riding a black and red Giant Mountain bike with white forks. 

Attempts to contact Trevor by phone and social media have not been successful.

The RCMP are concerned for his well-being and are asking anyone who may have any information that may assist the police in locating Trevor to please call the Nanaimo RCMP (250) 754-2345

Megan Paquette

UPDATE – The Nanaimo RCMP reported this morning that  Megan Paquette of Nanaimo hs been located.

Earlier story - Megan is a 35-year-old Indigenous woman with long brown hair and hazel eyes. She is 5'8 and 141 lbs.

On January 28, Megan told her family that she was going to Collier Dam Park, 635 Wakesiah Avenue, Nanaimo. On January 29, 2022, her family reported her missing; they had not spoken to her in 24 hours.

Police inquiries revealed that Megan had been at Nanaimo Regional Hospital between 10 am and 12:15 pm on January 29, 2022. Attempts to contact her by phone and social media have not been successful.

The RCMP and Megan's family and friends are concerned for her well-being and are asking anyone who may have any information that may assist the police in locating Megan to please call the Nanaimo RCMP (250) -754-2345

Police dog Luthor came to the rescue Friday after a 75-year-old Nanaimo man called RCMP for help. He had been hiking on a trail off of Vipond Road in Nanaimo and had become disoriented. He told police dispatchers that he was very wet, and officers became concerned for his well-being as the temperature had dropped to 1 degree.

Cst Hough of the RCMP Police Dog Services and Luthor came to help the patrol members on the scene; the police had narrowed down a search area by utilizing the GPS in the man's cell phone. Luthor tracked a few trails for approximately 350 metres and veered into the bush and found the man 200 metres awayl. The man was not injured."

We applaud the gentleman for calling the police, said Cst Wade, Nanaimo RCMP. "Sometimes, it's hard to admit that we are lost." "And, she continued, "as a police officer, I am always pleased when a PDS officer and their canine partner arrive on the scene. They are highly skilled teams and extremely effective.”

Items seized by RCMP after traffic stop

On January 19,  at approximately 4:30 PM, Officers with the Nanaimo RCMP Street Crime and Community Response Unit performed a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by a male known by police for not having a valid driver’s licence. 

There were three occupants inside the vehicle identified by police who were found to be associated to the drug trade. Through police investigation they located 10 ounces of Crystal Methamphetamine, 2.5 ounces of crack cocaine, 149 prescription pills, 500 ml of GHB, $385 Canadian currency, 4 cell phones, a digital scale and 5 replica firearms.  

Total estimated value at Street level is approximately $40,000. 

All occupants were released from scene pending analysis of items seized for charge approval.

220126 – In the early morning hours of Saturday January 22, 2022, Nanaimo RCMP officers were conducting proactive patrols in the area of Bowen Road and Meredith Road when they observed a suspicious vehicle. They quickly determined that the vehicle in question, an older model Ford Focus, did not have valid insurance and initiated a traffic stop to investigate further. 

What the investigating officers did not expect to find after locating a stolen insurance decal, were various types of prohibited weapons, drugs, several hundred dollars in Canadian currency, and an improvised explosive device. 

Of note, officers located a loaded .12-gauge shotgun and a loaded .12 gauge "zip-gun" improvised firearm, and a prohibited stun-gun flashlight. A homemade improvised explosive device was also found in the vehicle. The RCMP Explosives Disposal (EDU) were consulted and recommended that the device be taken to a nearby field until such time EDU could attend and safely destroy it.

"This is an excellent example of General Duty Officers in Nanaimo conducting a thorough investigation of a suspicious vehicle that went from a straight forward charge under the Motor Vehicle Act charge for no insurance, to apprehending three persons and getting several extremely dangerous weapons off the streets." said Constable Gary O'Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP. 

The suspects arrested were a 31-year-old male from Vernon, and a 23-year-old male and a 28-year-old female, both from Nanaimo. Charges are pending and the investigation is ongoing. All of the individuals were later released while the investigation continues.

Tara-Marie Connor.

Earlier story – The Nanaimo RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 25-year-old Tara-Marie Connor. On January 11, 2022, Connor was scheduled to receive medical treatment at the Nanaimo hospital. Connor missed the appointment and as a result, their caregivers are extremely concerned for the  safety and well-being of Connor.

Connor identifies as a man, and is 5 ft. 5 in., 180 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. Connor's  hair was recently cut short as shown in the attached photos. If anyone has information on the whereabouts of Tara-Marie Connor, please call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2022-1086.

Ben Ricard

The Nanaimo RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 30-year-old Ben Ricard who did not return to his north end Nanaimo residence after finishing his work day on Tuesday January 18, 2022. Based on this and some other issues, his friends and family are extremely concerned for his safety and well-being.

Ricard is a Caucasian man, 5 ft.9, 144 pounds, and the picture provided is recent. There is no clothing description but he is believed to be carrying a green checkered backpack.

If anyone has information on the whereabouts of Ben Ricard, please call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2022-1866.

Perry Blois

UPDATE – Nanaimo RCMP report that Perry Blois has been located, safe and sound.

EARLIER STORY - The Nanaimo RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 74-year-old Perry Blois. At approximately 2:30 PM on Monday January 17, 2022, multiple 911 calls were made from Blois’s cell phone. Investigators managed to trace the calls to the area of downtown Nanaimo but were unable to locate Blois. Police have also learned that Blois has a significant speech and hearing impediment.

Blois was recently living in Victoria but did reside in Nanaimo as of two years ago. He has no known friends or family in the immediate area. He is a Caucasian man, 6 ft.1, 180 pounds with grey hair and hazel eyes. The picture provided is believed to be Blois but it has not been confirmed.

If anyone has information on the whereabouts of Perry Blois, please call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2022-1745.

Dayton Anderson

220119 – Warrants have been issued for the arrest of 32-year-old Dayton Anderson of Nanaimo for Break and Enter and Assault. The warrants were issued after Anderson failed to appear in Nanaimo Provincial Court.

The charges against Anderson stem from an incident on October 8, 2021, in which Anderson allegedly entered the home of a 52-year-old man and then assaulted him. The victim told police, he first saw the suspect walking through his home. When he went to confront him, the victim was punched in the face. The victim was standing on his sun deck when he was assaulted, and the force of the punch caused him to lose his balance and tumble off of his deck. While left shaken by the ordeal and sporting a split lip, he did not require medical treatment. Before the suspect fled, the victim managed to take several pictures of the individual.

The pictures that the victim took of the suspect were circulated to the local Block Watch program and within minutes, the unknown person was positively identified. The next day Anderson was located and arrested by police.

Anderson is a Caucasian man, 5 ft. 10, 175 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. The picture provided is recent. Anderson should be considered violent and if seen, do not approach him and call 911, or the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.

Six adults are in police custody following a report of shots fired, that occurred at approximately 6:40 am on Monday January 17, 2022. The incident occurred in the 300 block of Hillcrest Avenue.

A number of police officers responded to the incident. The home in question, which is known to police, was entered and six persons were subsequently arrested without incident. There were no reported injuries from the shots fired.   

Police have secured the residence while investigators prepare a judicial authorization to allow officers to enter the home and search for evidence pertaining to the shooting.

NSAR file photo

An extensive land and water search is under way for a missing 32-year-old man. At approximately 8:30 a.m. on Friday his vehicle was located in the parking lot next to the Nanaimo River bridge. The individual's cell phone, wallet and keys were found in the vehicle.

Based on information gathered to date, the missing person’s family members are extremely worried for his safety and well-being. Shortly after locating the vehicle, Nanaimo Search and Rescue (NSAR) and RCMP Police Dog Services were contacted and began searching the immediate area including the Nanaimo River.

On Saturday, Search and Rescue crews from nearby jurisdictions joined in the search bringing the number of search and rescue volunteers to approximately 70. Additionally, two helicopters, a fast response vessel from the Cedar Volunteer Fire Hall and a SAR canine unit are on scene.

“There is approximately 11 kilometers of shoreline and water which makes up the Nanaimo River. The sheer size of the river compounded with the water levels and the current speed of the water, is making for challenging search conditions,” said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

He is Caucasian, 5 ft.10, with a thin build. He was last seen wearing a forest green sweater, tan pants and dark colored shoes. At the request of the family, his picture is not being released. 

If anyone has information that may assist in the search efforts, please call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.

Despite the challenges faced by COVID-19, in 2021, the Nanaimo RCMP Community Policing volunteers contributed more than 3,000 hours to crime prevention initiatives throughout Nanaimo.

The number of volunteers has increased every year and now sits at 42. “We are so pleased with the skill-set and diversity each and every volunteer brings to the program. We would also be remiss in not acknowledging the leadership that Christy Wood, the Community Policing Coordinator has brought to the program. She is certainly a driving figure in moving the program forward, “said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

Statistics nicely highlights the programs being carried out in Nanaimo. Most notable is the success of the bike registration (529 Garage) with 433 bikes being registered. Additionally, more than 7,600 vehicles were inspected under the Auto Crime program and 90,000 vehicles were monitored through the Speed Watch program. 

” The Nanaimo RCMP is truly blessed to have such amazing committed and innovative volunteers. Even under such stringent COVID safety protocols, they continue to bring vital crime prevention programs to Nanaimo," said Wood.

To find out how you can volunteer with the RCMP Community Policing, call 250-755-3163 or email  Christy.Wood@nanaimo.ca

Early Thursday evening the Nanaimo RCMP responded to a report of a home invasion. The incident occurred at approximately 6:50 pm, on Thursday January 6, 2022, in the 500 block of Second Street. 

Responding Officers flooded the area and were able to locate a suspect vehicle attempting to flee the scene of the crime. 4 men, all from Nanaimo were arrested without incident and transported to the Nanaimo Detachment for further investigation.

Upon arriving at the scene, investigators located a victim in his early 20s, who had suffered minor injuries, from an altercation with the suspects. A number of officers responded to the incident which included General Duty officers, Police Dog Services and the Nanaimo Projects Unit.

 said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP. It appears at this time the incident was an isolated deliberate event, and that there is no further risk to the public.

A 35-year-old Nanaimo man was released from police custody on criminal court appearance documents for Assault with a Weapon. His first appearance date has been set for March 15, in Nanaimo Provincial Court. The remaining males were released from police custody without charge.  

Officers continue to investigate this matter and are asking for anyone that witnessed the event to contact the Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345 and quote file # 2022-554.

Richard Turcotte

22-01-11 – UPDATEÆ RCMP report that Richard Turcotte, who was reported missing, has been found.

22-01-10 – The Nanaimo RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 41-year-old Richard Turcotte who has not been seen since January 4. RCMP were advised by his health care providers that he is in urgent need of medical attention, and that his current whereabouts are unknown.

Police believe that Turcotte is in Nanaimo, however exhaustive searches have proved negative. Turcotte is 5 ft. 8, 190 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. The picture is recent.

If anyone has information on the location of Richard Turcotte, please call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2022-314.

A local Mountie was literally in a fight for life when a suspect attempted to grab the firearm and made threats to use it against the officer. The incident occurred at mid afternoon Dec. 28, in the area of Promenade Drive.

The officer with nine years of police service, was initially responding to reports of a shoplifter, who had thrown cosmetics at a Loss Prevention Officer(LPO) at London Drugs, then threatened the LPO with bear spray. 

The suspect reportedly fled on foot and was last seen heading toward the water front when located by the officer. As the officer approached, the suspect was seen reaching into his backpack. The officer told the suspect he was under arrest and when the officer attempted to secure his wrist, the fight was on.

During the struggle the suspect grabbed at the officer’s holstered firearm and made continued threats to shoot the officer with it. During the melee, a civilian intervened which distracted the suspect long enough for another officer to arrive. At this time, the two officers managed to subdue the man and place him in handcuffs.

31-year-old Brian Imhoff of Nanaimo was arrested for Assaulting a Police Officer, Attempting to Disarm a Police Officer, and Uttering Threats. He was later remanded into police custody until his next court appearance Jan. 4. Imhoff appeared and was remanded into police custody until January 18.

“This was an extremely dangerous and volatile situation for the officer. It is also a stark reminder of the dangers that front line officers are faced with. The officer involved is to be commended for staying in the battle, using police training and relying on physical conditioning to successfully meet the challenge,” said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

The officer involved in the fight was not seriously injured and remained on duty for the shift.

Shown in the attached picture is Cst. Marty KORTAS, demonstrating the “left handed push-sweep technique”

After a wintery 24 hours, the Nanaimo RCMP Traffic Unit were out in full force looking for what they like to refer to as “rolling snow forts” which are  vehicles in which their drivers have not taken the time to remove snow build up from their roofs. This debris can cause significant damage to unsuspecting motorists and threatens the safety of all others who share the same roadway.

Officers cited several examples of vehicles they had observed having amounts of snow on their roofs that, if dislodged while on the roadway, would cause a significant distraction to drivers, and could threaten the safety of all others on and off the roadway. Officers in some cases provided drivers, young and old alike, with the tools and the safe opportunity to clear the snow, which could have been considered an insecure load under the Motor Vehicle Act. No tickets were issued and the officers treated the interactions as an educational experience.

“The Officers of the Nanaimo Municipal Traffic Unit patrol the streets and highways in all weather conditions, looking to ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians. The interaction they have had with motorists during the recent snow fall, is an example of their dedication to public safety as well as road safety education.” said Cst. Gary O’Brien.

The Nanaimo RCMP remind motorists that it takes only minutes to fully brush off their vehicles in times of heavy snow. Cst. Marty Korta, uses the “left handed push-sweep technique” a method he says that he perfected over his many years of policing. Cst Kortas cleaned off several police vehicles to demonstrate his tried and proven technique. Needless to say, we need more people like Cst Kortas.

220105 – The Nanaimo RCMP is asking for public assistance in locating a large emergency generator that was stolen from Nanaimo Lifeline, 1800 Bowen Road, sometime between Sunday and Tuesday.. 

Suspects entered onto the commercial property, detached the large Generac brand generator and left the area. Given the size of the generator, a large vehicle and at least several individuals would have been required to remove the device.

The generator provides backup emergency service for Nanaimo Lifeline who have been providing a personal emergency response service to residents of central Vancouver Island for the past 34 years. This local company provide buttons to seniors and medically at risk persons to summon help in the event of an emergency.

 “This crime appears to have taken place in plain view of the public and would have taken some time to complete due to size and weight of the generator. As the owner/operator of this device is an essential health service, and it is incredibly important that this item be located and put back into use for the well-being of the community," said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

If anyone has information on the whereabouts of the generator, please call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345 and quote file #2022-312.

Jolene Nass

220105 - RCMP today announced that Jolene Nass, who was reported missing, has been found safe.

220104 – EARLIER STORY - The Nanaimo RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 44-year-old Jolene Nass who has not been seen since approximately 1 am on Sunday January 2.

A 911emergency call was made from a phone registered to Nass. OCC Operators made multiple attempts to call the phone number back but were unsuccessful. It appears that the cell phone appears to have been turned off or the battery died shortly after the call was made.

Investigators believe Nass may be driving her grey 4-door 2004 Saturn Vue, with BC license plate of KX345G. Nass is of no fixed address but does have family and friends who live in the Parksville area.

Nass is 5 ft.6, 140 pounds, and the picture is recent. If anyone has information on the whereabouts of Jolene Nass, please call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2022-97.

Zack Gilbey, left, with his employees showing some of the stolen items. All of the recovered jerseys will be returned to the store once investigators catalogue each of the items.
(Photo submitted)

The Nanaimo RCMP made quick work of two thieves who allegedly broke into a local sporting goods store and stole upwards of 70 sporting items, including almost three dozen NHL youth hockey jerseys. The incident occurred at approximately 2:30 am on Friday December 31, at Kirby’s Source for Sports on Bowen Road.

Upon arrival, police met the store manager Zack Gilbey, who played back the store video surveillance for the officers. The store cameras clearly showed a suspect twice entering the business, grabbing as many jerseys as he could, then loading them into a waiting pickup. The suspect then departed in the pick up southbound on Bowen Road. 

Approximately one hour later, officers spotted the suspect vehicle being driven northbound along Terminal Ave, and pulled it over. As luck would have it, the suspect who was identified from the surveillance footage, was located in the vehicle along with all of the stolen jerseys.  

The suspect, a 48-year-old man of no fixed address, and the driver, age 40, who is also of no fixed address, were both promptly arrested then transported to the Nanaimo RCMP detachment. The 48-year old faces one count of Break and Enter, while the 40-year-old is facing one count of Possession of Stolen Property. Both men were released from police custody on Undertakings, with a court date pending of February 22, 2022 in Nanaimo Provincial Court.

Zack Gilbey, store manager, was ecstatic after being told that the jerseys had been recovered and the suspects caught, red handed.  “We were looking at a huge financial loss to replace these items. We’re just so relieved and grateful for getting them all back and for the quick and efficient response by the officers involved.” 

Robert Silva
Dec. 30, 2021

The Nanaimo RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 41-year-old Robert Silva, who is wanted for Possessing Stolen Property under $5,000 and Driving While Prohibited.

The allegations against Silva stem from an incident in March of 2021, in which he allegedly stole a vehicle from downtown Nanaimo and just hours later, he and the vehicle were found in the area of Nanaimo Lakes Road.

The attending officers told Silva to exit the vehicle but it seemed he wasn’t quite ready to do so. At that time, Police Dog Knight was deployed to assist in removing him. This seemed to work. The next stop for Silva prior to going to the Nanaimo detachment, was to the local hospital to be treated for some superficial abrasions attributed to Police Dog Knight.

Silva was later released from police custody with a court date pending for June 23, 2021. Silva didn’t appear as required and hence, the warrants were issued.

Silva is a Caucasian man, 5 ft.9,180 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. The picture provided is recent. Of note, Silva has a tattoo on his right forearm of a demon with rings, and one of a dragon on his left forearm.

If anyone has information on the whereabouts of Robert Silva, call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file # 2021-10338.

Courtenay Cross
Dec. 30, 2021

A Canada wide warrant has been issued for the arrest of 45-year-old Courtenay Cross. On December 16, 2021, Cross was released on Statutory release after serving a 27-month sentence for Trafficking under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Cross had been approved to stay at a residence in Nanaimo but just five days after her release, she left the home and her current location is unknown.

Cross is a Caucasian woman, 5 ft. 6, 120 pounds, and the picture provided is recent. If anyone has information on the whereabouts of Courtenay Cross, please call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.

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