A woman managed to call police after being sexually assaulted and unlawfully confined inside a Sapperton apartment.
The New Westminster Police Department received a 911 call on the morning of Sunday, Sept. 4 from someone saying they’d been sexually assaulted and were being unlawfully confined inside an apartment unit.
“After the caller provided a description of her surroundings, patrol officers arrived on scene and confirmed she was being held inside an apartment unit on Hospital Street against her will,” said a NWPD press release. “The victim attempted to climb over a balcony, however she was pulled back inside by the suspect.”
According to the NWPD, the crisis negotiation team, NWPD patrol officers, and the Lower Mainland District Emergency Response Team were able to negotiate the victim leaving the suite, but the alleged suspect refused to comply with police directions.
“After approximately 90 minutes of negotiations, and with the assistance of the Lower Mainland District Emergency Response Team, the suspect surrendered,” said the news release.
The victim was transported to local hospital.
“We commend the bravery it took for this person to call 911,” said NWPD spokesperson Sgt. Justine Thom. “We’d also like thank neighbours in the area for their patience and cooperation as we took this suspect into custody.”
The New Westminster Police Department’s major crime unit is investigating the incident.
“The relationship between the suspect and victim is still being investigated by police, but this incident is isolated and there is no increased risk to the public,” said the NWPD.
Philip Beynon, a 43-year-old New West resident, has been charged with sexual assault and unlawful confinement.
The New Westminster Police Department is asking anyone who has information about this incident and has not yet spoken to police to call 604-525-5411.
