Almost 6 years after a vicious robbery and assault at a home in the 2500 block of Esplanade Road in Oak Bay, two individuals have been charged.
On the morning of April 25, 2017, Nermeen Alireza, was alone inside her family home when an unknown man attacked her with a machete. She suffered significant life-altering injuries to her arm and hand. The man fled the scene and was not located by responding police officers.
On January 15, 2023, after a lengthy and complex investigation by the Saanich Police Major Crime Unit, officers arrested 30-year-old Kaspar Handspiker in the Maple Ridge area. He remains in custody and is facing charges of aggravated assault, and break and enter and commit robbery.
Additionally, Christopher Standell, 52, is facing one count of accessory after the fact to break and enter and commit robbery.
“This high-profile vicious attack had a significant impact in our community,” said Oak Bay Chief Constable Mark Fisher. “Supporting this investigation has been a priority for our department and I hope that these charges bring some level of comfort to the victim and those impacted by this crime. This investigation required a great deal of commitment, dedication, and perseverance on the part of the investigative team. This is another example of the value of our service agreement that exists between the Oak Bay Police Department and the Saanich Police Department for major crime investigative services.”
“My family and I are relieved to hear of the arrests, thanks to the tireless efforts of the Saanich and Oak Bay Police,” said Nermeen Alireza. “I am truly grateful to everyone that was involved and would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to both police departments, the Oak Bay Fire department, Ambulance Service, hospital staff and surgeons, as well as the Island Hand Therapy Clinic.”
“As both have been formally charged and this matter is now before the courts, we are unable to provide any further details about the investigation,” said Cst. Markus Anastasiades.
SPD File: 17-8997 Oak Bay File: 17-1152
Cst. Markus Anastasiades
Public Information & Communications Officer
media@saanichpolice.ca