New Westminster – The New Westminster Police Department Street Crime Unit has arrested a suspect who is believed to be responsible for selling drugs which contributed to the overdose death of a thirteen year old girl.

On July 15th, 2017 two teens purchased MDMA from a street level drug dealer at the 22nd Skytrain Station in New Westminster. The teens were returning to their residence in Port Coquitlam when the thirteen year old went into medical distress and later died at Royal Columbian Hospital. Toxicology results later confirmed that the thirteen year old died of a lethal overdose of MDMA.

The New Westminster Police Department Street Crime Unit conducted a lengthy and through investigation, which resulted in the arrest of a suspect. The suspect has since been released on an undertaking to appear in court.

A Report to Crown Counsel has been submitted recommending the following charges in relation to this tragic incident:

Two (2) counts of Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, contrary to Section 5 (1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act

“Our Street Crime Unit has been responsible for conducting a strong investigation and I believe they should be commended for their efforts,” stated Inspector Todd Matsumoto, “It can be particularly challenging and heartbreaking when you’re working on a case where the victim is a young person.”

The New Westminster Police Department would like to remind youth and parents about the dangers of MDMA.

“This tragic case highlights the very real risks involved in both taking these types of drugs,” stated Media Relations Officer Sergeant Jeff Scott. “We are urging parents to talk with their kids on an ongoing basis about drug use. This is something we should all be concerned about.”

The New Westminster Police Department would like to thank the Coquitlam RCMP, Transit Police, and the Vancouver Police Department for assistance with this case.

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