Police arrest suspect in New Westminster pepper spray robbery

The New Westminster Police Department says it has made an arrest related to a robbery on July 7 in which one person was assaulted with pepper spray.

According to police, officers arrested a suspect on Wednesday who allegedly stole an iPhone during a buy-and-sell transaction earlier last month.

A person was trying to sell an iPhone to the alleged perpetrator close to Columbia Square when he was defrauded with fake money.

Then, the suspect assaulted the iPhone owner with pepper spray and escaped the scene in a white Tesla.

“This arrest was made possible thanks in large part to the work of our Forensic Identification Unit,” said Sgt. Andrew Leaver.

“Their efforts played a major role in confirming the suspect’s involvement. We’re also grateful to the Abbotsford Police Department for their support, providing valuable information that assisted in moving this investigation forward,” he added.

Police say the investigation continues as they assess if there is any connection between the suspect and other similar incidents.