SURREY RCMP on Thursday announced that a prolific offender has been charged following a string of break and enters.

Following an increase in break and enter incidents over the summer, the Surrey RCMP Property Crime Target Team led a focussed investigation on this increased activity. The incidents occurred across Surrey, spanning the Whalley / City Centre, Newton, Guildford, and Cloverdale areas.

This investigation resulted in the arrest of 39-year-old David Lawson, who was arrested on September 11 and remanded in custody. Lawson is now charged with 11 counts of break and enter, multiple counts of driving while prohibited and breach of his probation conditions, as well as two fraud-related charges.  

The investigation also revealed that Tessa-Lee Wahpooseywan, an associate of Lawson, was involved in two of the break and enter incidents. A warrant has now been issued for Wahpooseywan (see photo) for two counts of break and enter.

“Just one prolific offender like Mr. Lawson can cause a significant statistical increase in a particular crime type and can also affect the public’s feeling of safety and security,” said Inspector Mike Hall, Surrey RCMP Proactive Enforcement Officer. “Our specialized teams are committed to investigating and arresting prolific offenders who try to erode the safety of our neighbourhoods.”

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Wahpooseywan is asked to call Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 or, if you wish to make an anonymous report, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca.