Richmond RCMP arrests man in attempted child luring case

The Richmond RCMP says it has arrested one person after officers received reports of an alleged case of attempted child luring.

Mounties were called to the area of Moncton Street near No. 1 Road in Steveston Wednesday just after 6:30 p.m.

According to the person who called them, a man had been speaking with the woman’s child through Snapchat and had asked the child to meet at a park in the area.

The RCMP says the mother “interceded,” with the man being held until police got there. The man reportedly “frequents” Steveston parks.

Investigators say they have confirmed the man may have been speaking with other minors.

“We recognize there may be additional youth who have been in contact with this man. We are issuing this alert so that parents, youth and the community as a whole are aware that police are actively investigating this matter and encourage anyone with information to come forward,” said Insp. Michael Cohee, officer-in-charge of Richmond RCMP Investigative Services.

According to police, the man has been released from custody with conditions. They include a no-contact order with the children and their families; not being alone in the presence of and not communicating with people under 18; not going to any parks, public swimming areas, daycares, schools, playgrounds, community centres, or any other place where minors are known to be present or can reasonably be expected to be present; not taking any work or volunteering position that deals with children; and not using computers/internet or attempt to get in touch with someone who is known to be or reasonably appears to be under 18 years old.

Personal and online safety

Mounties say it’s important for parents to maintain open communication with their kids about safety and social media. The RCMP is offering tips for families and children when it comes to social media use and personal safety.

They include avoiding long conversations with strangers, and not giving up any personal information. Police are telling children “it’s okay to say no to adults who ask you to do something for them,” and say to never accept a ride, gifts, or money from a stranger “or even someone you may know, without checking with your parents/guardians.”

For families, police are recommending you be aware of your child’s digital presence and work on strategies to keep them safe online. Tips include turning off location services and only sharing those details with trusted people you know, keeping personal details to a minimum online, and not engaging with strangers.

The Richmond RCMP is asking anyone with information about this case or any others to contact investigators at 604-278-1212 and quote file 2024-5744.