A concerned citizen is being credited with information that led to the arrest of a male accused of domestic violence after they contacted police to provide information about something that they observed.
On Sunday, May 4, at approximately 6:30 pm, the witness observed a male and a female outside of a store at the Tillicum mall shopping center. The witness believed, based on observations, that the male and female were involved in a dispute. The witness believed that the male was dragging the female by her arm prior to entering a nearby store. The witness was not comfortable with what they saw, and having concern for the female, contacted police.
Several members from the Saanich Police Uniform Division responded to the incident and were able to observe the couple inside a nearby storefront. When the male suspect observed police, he attempted to evade police within the store, however, was apprehended and detained for a possible assault investigation.
Investigation revealed that the 27 year old male, and resident of the Lower Mainland, was awaiting disposition on a domestic violence assault file. The male had previously been released on conditions, including having no contact with his female victim, and having a no-go to Vancouver Island except for court purposes.
Given that the male was in the company of his previous alleged victim, and was clearly on Vancouver Island, he was arrested, held to appear in court and and currently remains in custody awaiting a further court appearance.
“The awareness of the witness in this case, to follow their gut instinct, may have prevented a domestic violence victim from being victimized once again” Sgt. Steve Eassie said.
File 2014-7985
Sgt. Steve Eassie #158