Vancouver – Vancouver Police arrested an alleged groper last night, after he was chased down by the same woman he sexually assaulted moments earlier.
“This woman showed courage, poise, and presence of mind after being attacked by a complete stranger,” said Sergeant Steve Addison. “We commend her, and the people who assisted her, for tracking down the suspect and helping our officers make this quick arrest.”
The woman, a 32-year-old Vancouver resident, was walking alone near Main Street and East 62 Avenue around 11:45 p.m. Sunday when she was approached from behind and sexually assaulted by a stranger. The suspect tried to run away, but the woman chased after him and drew attention to herself by calling out for help.
“Her screams caught the attention of two men in a nearby house, who came outside just as the suspect was fleeing into a yard,” adds Sergeant Addison. “The Good Samaritans took custody of the suspect while the woman called 9-1-1, and our officers arrived moments later to take custody of the man.”
Police have seized the man’s clothing and a vehicle that was parked nearby. Officers are now canvassing the neighbourhood for witnesses and security video.
The suspect, a 34-year-old who is believed to live in the neighbourhood, has not yet been formally charged. He is due back in court on January 25, 2025.
