VPD looks for protester after officer assaulted during protest
Posted March 15, 2024 8:42 am.
Last Updated March 15, 2024 8:46 am.
Vancouver police want help identifying a suspect accused of assaulting an officer during a protest in early March.
According to the VPD, a group of protesters was trying to occupy the Granville Street Bridge on March 2. In an attempt to “stop the group from advancing,” the VPD says “officers formed a line near the on-ramp of the bridge” but adds protesters pushed at police “and tried to break through.”
In the scuffle, police claim a protester “struck” a constable in the face and “used a small stick with a flag attached to poke at her eyes.”
The suspect got away before she could be arrested. While the VPD says officers recognized the woman from other protests, they have not been able to identify her.
“We work hard to create an environment that allows people to peacefully gather so they can express themselves,” said Const. Tania Visintin. “While most people continue to act lawfully and respectfully, we’ve noted an increased level of aggression and hostility from some participants at recent gatherings. Their actions have endangered our officers and the public.”
The suspect is identified as having a heavy build and shoulder-length hair. Police say she was wearing a dark-coloured sweater, leggings, distinctive pink shoes, and reading glasses at the time of the incident, as well as a tan baseball cap, a white and red scarf, and a black face mask.
The VPD is asking anyone with information to contact the Major Crime Section at 604-717-2541.
