New Westminster –The New Westminster Police Department has arrested a suspect who is believed to be responsible for selling drugs which contributed to the overdose death of a sixteen year old New Westminster resident, and the hospitalization of another. 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

The overdose death occurred on May 26, 2017 and prompted the New Westminster Police Department to issue an urgent warning that same day about the lethal drug, which at the time was unidentified. On June 2, 2017 it was determined that the drug that contributed to the death of the New Westminster teenager was 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 with conditions.

“It is clear to me that the success of this police operation was the result of the methodical and painstaking team effort on the part of all the investigating officers,” stated Staff Sergeant Andrew Perry, “We will continue to work hard to proactively tackle drug dealing throughout New Westminster and I hope residents can feel reassured that we are taking positive action.”

The New Westminster Police Department is committed to the comprehensive and immediate investigation of drug deaths and will continue to work hard to keep the streets of New Westminster safe.

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