An assault investigation in Hope has led police to the execution of search warrants at three residences, the recovery of stolen goods, a firearms seizure and an arrest.
It all began on Aug. 31, when a call was made to the Hope RCMP that someone was assaulted and dragged along the ground in a wooded area near Lake of the Woods. Police quickly identified a possible suspect linked to a vehicle reported stolen on Aug. 25 from Flood Hope Road, and who earlier on the morning of Aug. 31 failed to stop for police on Douglas Street.
That suspect was arrested in the 200-block of Robertson Crescent on the morning of Sept. 3.
As officers continued to collect evidence during their investigation the suspect was associated to several addresses in the 400-block of 6th Avenue and the 300-block of Ferry Landing Road.
Later that day, Hope RCMP executed a search warrant of two residences on 6th Avenue. Sporting goods, gas power tools, and hand tools linked to current investigations into a series of thefts reported to police were seized during the search.
A second search warrant was executed by police on Ferry Landing Road on Sept. 5. Firearms, ammunition, a bicycle, and evidence linked to the assault investigation were seized by officers.
Jacob Paul Sihata, 19, of Hope is charged with possession of stolen property under $5000, drive while disqualified, flight from police, assault causing bodily harm, uttering threats, unlawful confinement, possess firearm without licence and/or registration, and occupying vehicle knowing a firearm is present. Mr. Sihata remains in custody pending and had a court appearance set for Sept. 16.
Police say that following a thorough investigation and review of evidence gathered, all circumstances of the investigations will be forwarded in a report by the RCMP to the BC Prosecutor Service for their assessment of further criminal charges.
The assault victim is recovering from their injuries.
“Fortunately the victim of the alleged assault was examined by medical personnel and released from hospital,” says Staff Sergeant Karol Rehdner. “Hope RCMP officers worked relentlessly gathering evidence during our investigations into a recent spike of theft and break and enter reports received by police.”
RCMP remind everyone who witnesses anything they believe to be suspicious in nature to contact the Hope RCMP at 604-869-7750 or, should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).