Date: 2021-April-27
Contact: Cst. Kevin Goodmurphy
Telephone: 604.925.7348
File #: 21-4300
West Vancouver – A 36-year-old man of no fixed address is facing multiple charges after he allegedly stole a boat in Horseshoe Bay and fled from police.
On Friday, April 23, 2021, at 3:40 pm, West Vancouver Police officers attended Sewell’s Marina after staff reported witnessing a man jump into an empty 17ft powerboat and launch it toward the open ocean.
WVPD immediately requested assistance from the Vancouver Police Marine Unit.
Moments later, a nearby resident reported that the suspect had grounded the boat in Larson Bay, and fled on foot onto a nearby property.
Officers quickly set up containment.
A team from the Vancouver Police Canine Unit attended to support patrol officers, and the dog quickly picked up the scent.
The suspect was located hiding in a private pool utility room and was taken into custody.
Further investigation revealed that the suspect had also briefly entered a nearby home and was found to be in possession of stolen items upon his arrest.
“This was a very well-orchestrated response,” says Cst. Kevin Goodmurphy. “We thank the Vancouver Police Canine Unit and Marine Units, who greatly assisted our officers.”
BC Prosecution Service has now approved the following charges against 36-year-old Andrew Jason Knowland:
Count 1 – Possession Stolen Property Sec 355 CCC
Count 2 – Break and Enter and Commit Indictable Offence Sec 348(1)(b) CCC
Count 2 – Break and Enter with intent to commit offence Sec 348(1)(a) CCC
Mr. Knowland was released from custody on April 24, pending his next court appearance.
