Vancouver, British Columbia — March 6, 2013 — The North Vancouver RCMP say a con artist has been targeting good Samaritans in recent weeks, and he’s involving local tow companies. A statement issued by North Vancouver RCMP says the man has been approaching victims by requesting a ride to one of the local tow companies so he can get his vehicle out of impound.
“He then plays on the good nature and generosity of the driver to give him money to help get his vehicle out from the tow yard. He is creative in his petitions for both a ride and money,” says Cpl. Richard De Jong of the North Vancouver RCMP. “Once near the tow company, the suspect gets out of the vehicle with the money and walks the other way.
The suspect is described as male, Caucasian, approximately 50 years old, 6’0 (183 cm) tall, wearing a blue/black jacket and carrying a large backpack. Two reports have thus far been made to the North Vancouver RCMP, and investigators suspect additional victims may have not yet reported their interactions with the man.
The police are requesting anyone who may have been approached or solicited by this suspect to contact the North Vancouver RCMP by speaking to Sgt. Philip Yong, District Response Sergeant, at 604-969-7549.
