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New Westminster – A New Westminster man has pled guilty to seven criminal charges following an investigation by the New Westminster Police Department’s Specialized Investigation Unit (SIU) into a series of intimate partner violence offenses that occurred between September and October 2024.
The investigation began after police responded to several reports involving a pattern of escalating violence. Through the coordinated efforts of SIU investigators, the NWPD Victim Assistance Unit, and a Family Services of Greater Vancouver (FSGV) counsellor, the victim was supported in advance of and during the court process.
On June 4, 2025, Edward Soviak entered guilty pleas to seven counts related to three separate incidents:
One count of assault, contrary to Section 266 of the Criminal Code of Canada
One count of unlawful confinement, contrary to Section 279(2) of the Criminal Code of Canada
One count of assault, contrary to Section 266 of the Criminal Code of Canada
One count of breach of a no contact condition, contrary to Section 145(5)(a) of the Criminal Code of Canada
One count of obstruction of justice, contrary to Section 139(3)(a) of the Criminal Code of Canada
One count of uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm, contrary to Section 264.1(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada
One count of breach of a no contact order, contrary to Section 516(2) of the Criminal Code of Canada
“This was a complex and emotionally challenging investigation. I want to commend the incredible work of our Specialized Investigation Unit and thank our partners at Family Services of Greater Vancouver and our Victim Assistance Unit,” stated Sergeant Andrew Leaver. “Their efforts played a vital role in supporting the victim and helping ensure these offenses were brought before the court.”
Edward Soviak remains in custody. Sentencing is scheduled for August 2025.
Anyone experiencing intimate partner violence is encouraged to reach out to police or support services.
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CONTACT PERSON: Sergeant Andrew Leaver
EMAIL: communications@nwpolice.org
FILE: 24-14779/24-16306/24-17656/24-14323
