New Westminster man charged after weapons found in sex exploitation case
Police uncovered an arsenal including an SKS rifle, shotgun, and 3D-printed firearm parts after investigating a man seen with a youth in public.
A New Westminster man has been charged with sexual exploitation and multiple weapons offences after police discovered a substantial cache of firearms in his home during an investigation that began with a public tip.
On March 21, a concerned citizen reported seeing a man acting in an "inappropriate manner" with a female youth in public and provided the licence plate of their vehicle. When officers located the man, they found he had conditions prohibiting contact with anyone under 16—but the youth he was seen with did not technically breach those conditions.
Police arrested the man for sexual exploitation. During that arrest, he was found wearing a cross-body bag containing a bear-scare fire pistol. Further investigation led officers to believe he possessed additional weapons.
A search warrant executed at his home uncovered an SKS rifle, a pistol-gripped compact shotgun, a .22 calibre semi-automatic rifle, ammunition, replica firearms, holsters, 3D-printed firearm parts, and several other prohibited devices.
"The presence of weapons in relation to a sexual exploitation investigation is extremely concerning," said Sergeant Andrew Leaver. "We are thankful to the concerned citizen who called us and allowed us to uncover not only a multitude of weapons, but to also remove a vulnerable female from a dangerous situation."
On May 26, the man was charged with sexual exploitation, unauthorized possession of a prohibited weapon, carrying a concealed weapon, and several other offences. He remains in custody as police process evidence.
Lever reminded the public to report suspicious activity. "This is a great reminder to the public to call us if something doesn't seem or feel right."