Security at the hospital has been beefed up amid the pandemic and following this theft

New Westminster Police say they have an idea of who the suspect is, and are confident in catching her

Police are investigating the theft of cash and credit cards from a nurse's locker at Royal Columbia Hospital on April 14

NEW WESTMINSTER (NEWS 1130) — A woman disguised in scrubs broke into a nurse’s locker at Royal Columbian Hospital last week and made off with cash and credit cards, according to police.

The theft happened around 2:45 a.m. on April 14, according to Sgt. Jeff Scott with New Westminster Police.

“We’re all impacted by the pandemic. It’s disheartening when somebody would allegedly steal from health care workers,” he said.

“They’re out there everyday putting themselves at risk for our health and we want to make sure that their stuff and their property is safe while they’re working.”

The suspect is a woman in her late 20s. Scott says investigators have an idea who they’re looking for, but will not release her identity until after they have recommended charges to Crown Counsel.

“I’ve got a lot of confidence in our investigators and their ability to catch this person and bring them before the courts. My hope is that happens sooner rather than later and prevents any other thefts from occurring,” Scott said.

Police are reviewing surveillance footage from the hospital and nearby businesses, and security at the hospital has been beefed up.

“Security is vigilant, and aware of this. They’re going to continue monitoring people coming and going and making sure that people don’t have access to staff areas, access to lockers.”

Security has been beefed up at Royal Columbian Hospital in #NewWest after woman wearing scrubs steals cash and credit cards from nurse’s locker. @NewWestPD Sgt. Jeff Scott says suspect is in her late 20s and he’s confident arrest will be made soon. #COVID19 #crime @NEWS1130 — Marcella Bernardo (@Bernardo1130) April 22, 2020

Dr. Victoria Lee, Fraser health’s Chief Medical Health Officer, says enhanced security amid the pandemic involves screening at each entrance, dedicated security staff, and surveillance cameras.

“Security and safety of our staff is of critical importance to us,” Lee said, adding she was very sorry to hear of last week’s theft.

“It’s so disheartening to see staff targeted for theft while they’re working hard to support our community and ensuring that our essential health services are continuing.”