RCMP arrest suspect who stole thousands of dollars worth of lumber

Law enforcement on the West Shore says they have arrested a man accused of stealing lumber from various businesses and construction sites in the region.

In a press release issued Wednesday, West Shore RCMP say they executed a search warrant and arrested a 39-year-old Saanich resident on May 17 for theft over $5,000 after finding thousands of dollars worth of allegedly stolen lumber at the suspect’s property.

The arrest came after a two-month investigation after countless businesses and lumber construction in the region reported lumber thefts, say police. They also say the lumber was returned to the rightful owners.

“A lot of great work was done by our team throughout this investigation, which ultimately resulted in an arrest,” Cpl. Fred Ritchie of the West Shore RCMP’s Crime Reduction Unit said in the release, adding. “It’s a good feeling to be able to return stolen property to its rightful owners and to deter others from taking advantage of these construction sites.”

According to West Shore RCMP, they first began investigating after receiving a report about lumber being stolen from the Olympic View area in Colwood. After that, they say they received “several” other reports regarding stolen wood.

West Shore RCMP say more than $10,000 in lumber was reported stolen prior to the recent arrest of a suspect.

In addition to seizing the suspected stolen wood, West Shore RCMP says they also seized the suspect’s vehicle.

They also say the investigation is ongoing and police will be recommending further charges against the suspect.

The suspect’s name was not released.

Editorial Policies Report an Error