New Westminster police arrested a trio of teenagers after what Port Moody police describe as a “brazen assault” on staff at a liquor store.
The Port Moody Police Department received a call about 5:15 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 5 about three “clearly underage youths” who were attempting to purchase liquor at a liquor store.
After being refused service, Port Moody police say one of the youths allegedly pulled out concealed bear mace and sprayed multiple staff members. The trio fled the area on foot.
“Front-line officers flooded the area promptly, however, the suspects had since departed onto a nearby SkyTrain,” said a press release from the Port Moody Police Department.
The suspects, however, were tracked into New Westminster, where they were all arrested without incident by New Westminster police officers.
“Our work with Port Moody police demonstrates how police agencies across the region work together on a daily basis to share information, make arrests and keep our communities safe,” said New Westminster Police Department spokesperson Sgt. Sanjay Kumar.
According to the Port Moody Police Department, the file remains under investigation, and charges have not yet been approved by Crown counsel.
“It is unfortunate that front-line employees took the brunt of this unnecessary and vindictive act of violence,” Port Moody police Const. Sam Zacharias said in a news release. “Any other victims or witnesses inside the store who have not yet spoken to police are asked to contact us.”
