Public warning for possible distraction theft group following arrest in Richmond

Richmond, Public Alert

2025-02-13 07:44 PST

File # 2025-4135

Richmond RCMP is alerting the public to potential distraction thefts following an arrest in Richmond.

On February 6, 2025 shortly after 10:15 p.m. Richmond RCMP responded to the 8300 block of Lansdowne Road for a reported theft in progress. The complainant reported that a man had stolen a woman’s phone and that the suspect was being held by two Good Samaritans. Richmond RCMP frontline officers quickly arrived on scene and took the suspect into custody.

In speaking with the victim, officers learned she had just returned to her vehicle when a woman knocked on her car window and pointed out the victim’s tire had been punctured. When the victim exited to check the tire, the suspect approached and allegedly grabbed her purse from the front seat. The victim advised she verbally confronted the suspect, at which point he dropped the purse and started to run, which is when the Good Samaritans intervened and called 9-1-1.

Marco Bryans Neyra Sanchez has been charged with one-count of theft contrary to Section 334(B) of the Criminal Code of Canada.

We have seen similar distraction thefts in the past escalate into a series of incidents. While an arrest has been made, we believe other suspects may still be at large, says Corporal Adriana O’Malley, Richmond RCMP Media Relations Officer. If someone approaches you at your vehicle, we urge you to remain cautious and vigilant. Keep your vehicle locked and assess the situation from inside seeking help from a trusted source if needed. If you feel unsafe, call 9-1-1.

Cpl. O’Malley adds, We commend the Good Samaritans who came to the victim’s assistance and promptly called 9-1-1. Their swift action was instrumental in enabling our frontline officers’ quick response.

Based on the investigation, Richmond RCMP believes that additional individuals may have been involved in the offence. Richmond RCMP is asking anyone who may have information or have witnessed this incident to contact Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212 and quote file number 2025-4135.

Released by:

Email: richmond_media@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Website: richmond.rcmp.ca

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