Squamish RCMP this week warned citizens to be on the lookout for possible instances of fraud after a local resident reported that she had been bilked out of a "large sum of money."
On Monday (Feb. 6), a Squamish woman reported to police that she had received a cheque for $4,000, which was said to be an advance payment for a "job," RCMP Staff Sgt. Guy Pollock said in a statement.
The complainant deposited the money and forwarded what was described as "a large sum of money" which was theoretically to be covered by the cheque. However, it turned out that both the cheque and would-be employer were fraudulent, Pollock said.
"A reminder to all to be alert to potential frauds and the familiar adage, 'If it seems too good to be true, it probably is,'" Pollock said.
Those who wish to report possible fraudulent or other suspicious activity may call Squamish RCMP at (604) 892-9161 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
Man arrested
Last Thursday (Feb. 2), police received information that a man who had recently been released from jail might be en route to Squamish. Police attended the home of a female who with whom the man had a court-imposed "no contact" order. Police searched the home and found the man hiding in a closet. He was arrested and is facing a charge of breach of a recognizance, Pollock said.
Vehicle damaged
On Sunday (Feb. 5), Squamish RCMP received a report of mischief to a vehicle parked on Hunter Place near downtown Squamish. Police arrived to find a rear window broken and a door handle damaged. Pollock reminded citizens to avoid parking in low-lit, low-traffic areas and to either take valuables with them or remove them from the view of prying eyes.
Pot seized, notice issued
On Sunday, an officer stopped a male on foot. The man exhibited unusual behaviour and police believed he may have been driving a vehicle moments earlier, Pollock said. A check revealed that the man was prohibited from driving in B.C., but had not previously been served notice on the earlier infraction. He was also found to be carrying a small amount of marijuana. The drugs were seized and the man was served a "driving prohibited status" notice before being allowed to proceed on his way.
Distracted driving warning issued
In the coming days, Squamish RCMP will be on the lookout for instances of distracted driving - including the use of non-hands-free cell phones, texting, putting on makeup, etc. - in response to ongoing concerns about the risks posed by those who are driving while distracted. The penalty for failing to adhere to distracted-driving laws is a $167 fine and three driver penalty points.
"Traffic safety - reducing fatalities and serious injuries - is a top priority," Pollock said. "The tragedy is that deaths and serious injuries from crashes are, for the most part, preventable."
As well, Pollock said local officers will be watching to be sure that participants in B.C.'s Graduated Licencing Program are adhering to the program's restrictions. For example, learners and new drivers are prohibited from using electronic devices - even hands-free ones - while driving, he said.
