New Westminster Police want public’s help to identify suspect in poppy donation theft

THE New Westminster Police on Saturday announced they are seeking the public’s assistance to identify a suspect in an alleged poppy donation theft.

On November 8, at approximately 2 p.m., an adult male entered the Royal Canadian Legion at 631 6th Street to order food. After the male had paid for his food at the cash register, the staff noticed that the donation tin for poppies was missing. Upon reviewing video surveillance, it appears that the male concealed the tin while paying for his meal.

The suspect male is described as a 50- to 60-year-old white male, balding with grey hair and a grey beard, and wearing a two-tone sweat shirt. Staff located the donation tin outside, but it was empty.

This theft is one of three poppy donation thefts that occurred on November 8 in New Westminster.

“It is disheartening to know people would steal donations that are intended to support our veterans,” said Sgt. Jeff Scott. “Our veterans deserve honour and respect for the great service that they have made to our nation. We owe our freedom and liberty to them, and for that we are forever grateful.”

Anyone with information of the poppy donation thefts is asked to call the New Westminster Police at 604-525-5411.