How do I...
If the crime you are reporting is an emergency, call 9-1-1.
If the crime you are reporting is not an emergency, you can call the non-emergency line at 604-525-5411 or attend our Front Counter at 555 Columbia Street, New Westminster, BC.
New Westminster – At approximately 8:00 pm on July 2nd the New Westminster Police Department responded to a 9-1-1 call from a man inside a restaurant near Victoria Hill. Officers learned that a suspect allegedly took a large knife from the kitchen area and was threatening individuals inside the restaurant. When officers arrived, they saw a man matching the suspect description leaving the restaurant with the knife. Officers spoke to the man, de-escalated the situation, and convinced him to drop the knife. The suspect followed police instructions and he was arrested without incident.
39-year-old James Hamelin has been charged with:
Assault with a weapon contrary to Section 267(a) of the Criminal Code of Canada
Uttering Threats contrary to Section 264.1(1)(a) of the Criminal Code of Canada
Mischief contrary to Section 430(4) of the Criminal Code of Canada
“This suspect’s behavior caused people inside this restaurant considerable fear,” stated Sergeant Andrew Leaver. “Staff did the right thing by not engaging the male directly and ensuring the personal safety of themselves and their patrons.”
Police would like to connect with the patrons that were inside the restaurant who fled the area before police arrived. It is important officers hear from them about what they saw and offer them the support of our Victim Assistance Unit. If you have any information on this incident you are asked to call the New Westminster Police Department and reference file 2023-10729.
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CONTACT PERSON: Hailey Finnigan
EMAIL: communications@nwpolice.org
