Vehicle stop leads to arrests

On December 20th, 2023, at approximately 1:30 a.m., frontline officers from Penticton and Keremeos stopped a suspicious vehicle travelling at a high rate of speed along Highway 3A near the Keremeos Bypass Road.

The passenger was recognized as a 35-year-old Penticton resident known to have outstanding warrants, while the 33-year-old driver was also found to have warrants from Kelowna, BC.

Both men were subsequently arrested.

The driver displayed suspected signs of impairment by drugs, and was detained for further investigation.

A search incidental to the men’s arrest yielded suspected illegal drugs, along with a 3D printed 22 calibre firearm, break-in tools and weapons.

Both men, in addition to their outstanding warrants, face additional charges including, but not limited to, possessing break and enter instruments, possession of controlled substances, and possession of a prohibited or restricted weapon.

The 35-year-old was held in custody pending a bail hearing, while the 33-year-old driver was released to appear in court at a later date.

This high-risk vehicle stop led to the arrest of two wanted individuals, uncovering drugs and a 3D printed firearm, states Cpl. James Grandy, BC RCMP Spokesperson. This incident highlights the unpredictable risks officers face daily and their commitment to proactive community safety."