Cops arrest prolific offender

Photo: Contributed

UPDATED: 11:24 a.m.

Police aren't releasing much in the way of details, but are saying that late Monday afternoon they were able to arrest a man wanted on a number of outstanding warrants. 

Dale James Williams was arrested just after 6 p.m. at an address near Okanagan Landing Road.  Police say James was taken into custody after a brief foot pursuit.  

"Upon police arrival, the 28-year-old man attempted to evade police by running through a nearby creek," stated Sgt. Janelle Shoihet. "Williams was arrested without incident and will appear in Vernon court on numerous charges.

Witnesses reported to Castanet that at the time of the arrest, a heavy police presence was spotted in the area, which included a helicopter. 

Williams is facing charges of break and enter, fraud, theft of motor vehicle, possession of stolen property, driving while prohibited, breach of a recognizance, assault a police officer and resisting arrest.

ORIGINAL: 9:18 a.m.

A young Vernon family is concerned for the safety of their neighbourhood after a large police presence swarmed the area near their home Monday night.

The witnesses, who wish to remain anonymous, tell Castanet that they were just finishing dinner around 6 p.m. , when they saw several RCMP cruisers, with lights flashing, rush to an area just off Okanagan Landing Road.

As many as six cruisers and a helicopter were seen in the area, and a section of Osprey Road appeared to be blocked off. 

"I thought, 'is something wrong with our property?' One witness tells Castanet. "So, I went down to see. As I was approaching them, I saw a whole group of police officers standing in the culdesac. As I got within 100 feet from them, two came towards me and told me that they were able to arrest a criminal that was involved in property theft and scamming."

While officers did their best to ensure the witness that the neighbourhood was safe, the young family still feels shaken over the whole incident. 

"I can't sleep anymore. It was shocking for us. It is so close to home."

The couple, who have a toddler, say in recent years they have seen an increase in suspicious behaviour in the quiet neighbourhood. They have even heard that their neighbour's home across the street from them was broken into. 

"When we hear that it makes us wonder if there are more criminals in the area. It makes it hard to fall asleep."

Castanet received multiple news tips regarding the incident Monday night and has reached out to RCMP for comment. However, at this time, RCMP have not responded to Castanet's request. 

Photo: Contributed