Two suspects are facing charges that include assault with a weapon following an alleged kidnapping in New Westminster last month.
Richard Favel, 38, and Jess Heerema, 45, are still in custody, New West police (NWPD) confirmed in a statement today, Sept. 5, as investigators continue to gather evdience that could lead to more charges.
The incident took place in the early hours of Aug. 17 when NWPD received "credible information" that a local resident had been kidnapped.
The victim was found within 24 hours of the initial report and was taken to hospital for treatment. The suspects were also located and arrested.
Favel, according to the NWPD, is facing the following charges:
- Uttering threats contrary to section 264.1(1)(a) of the Criminal Code
- Assault with a weapon contrary to section 267(a) of the Criminal Code
- Assault section 266 of the Criminal Code of Canada
Heerema, of Vancouver, is facing the following charges:
- Uttering threats contrary to section 264.1(1)(a) of the Criminal Code
- Assault with a weapon contrary to section 267(a) of the Criminal Code
“We were deeply worried about this person’s safety,” said department spokesperson Sgt. Andrew Leaver.
“Time is of the essence in kidnapping investigations, and thanks to the hard work and expertise of numerous police teams, we were able to find the victim and arrest the suspects.”
New Westminster Police Department officers appeal for witnesses to come forward following arrests and charges related to kidnapping investigation. https://t.co/wGafr4JZ9J #NewWest pic.twitter.com/yrStLx4Ek7
— New Westminster Police Department (@NewWestPD) September 5, 2024
Police are now appealing for witnesses, encouraging anyone that may have seen suspicious activity in the 500-block Front Street the night of Aug. 16.
“These types of investigations require significant staffing and financial resourcing in very short time frames,” added Acting NWPD Chief Constable Paul Hyland.
“I’m very proud of the great work by our investigators and support staff, and also very appreciative of the remarkable support we received from our policing partners.”
The investigation is led by the NWPD's Major Crime Unit. Other agencies involved included regional RCMP, Vancouver Police Department, Metro Vancouver Transit Police, Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU-BC), and the Lower Mainland Integrated Emergency Response Team (ERT).
Anyone with more information about the incident, suspicious or otherwise, is encouraged to call NWPD's Major Crime Unit directly at 604-529-2430 or email [email protected].
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