A 25-year-old Parksville man who may be responsible for a "crime spree" that "ruined the vacation of many who traveled to our community" was arrested Saturday afternoon outside Rathtrevor Provincial Park.
According to a news release issued by Oceanside RCMP, police were called to the scene around 3 p.m. after reports of a vehicle break in and the suspect, who is well known to police, was arrested without incident.
Police say a search incidental to arrest revealed the man was in possession of several stolen items linked to recent vehicle thefts in Rathtrevor Park, including the theft of a passport and a substantial amount of foreign currency.
"We are very pleased this suspect was apprehended and now will be held to account for his actions," said Oceanside RCMP Cpl. Jesse Foreman in the release. "His crime spree ruined the vacation of many who traveled to our community."
Police say they believe the suspect is responsible for the string of recent thefts. He was remanded in custody and scheduled to make his first appearance in Nanaimo Provincial Court yesterday (Aug.31).
In total, Oceanside RCMP recommended 12 charges against the suspect ranging from several counts of possession of stolen property, theft under $5,000 and possession of break in instruments.
— NEWS Staff