Although aspects of the investigation are still ongoing, the purpose of this update is to ease any concerns students, parents, school authorities, or the community may have in relation to the abduction reported to have occurred on David Avenue in Port Moody on November 17, 2015.
As a result of the subsequent police investigation, conducted by the Port Moody Police Major Crime Section, we have determined the reported abduction to be unfounded. We are satisfied there is no existing or known threat to the safety of students as they travel to and from schools in our community.
Police are obligated to conduct full and vigorous investigations in response to reported threats to public safety, especially when they concern some of the most vulnerable persons in our community, such as children. However, it is also essential the public is made aware when the reported threat no longer exists in order to reduce any potential anxiety or fear it may have caused.
The Port Moody Police will be consulting with Crown Counsel on the outcome of our investigation and our Victim Services Unit will continue to provide support to those persons who may have been affected.
Due to the nature of this matter, we are not in a position to comment on any further aspects of the investigation at this time.
Although this event has been determined to be unfounded, we would like to take this opportunity to remind students to always remain alert to their surroundings to enhance personal safety. Here are some general safety tips for walking safely to and from school:
- Walk with a friend or with groups whenever possible
- Establish a safe route to school and home with parents to avoid possible danger
- Stick to the routes you have picked with your parents and do not take shortcuts that could lead to danger
- Never accept rides from people that have not been arranged with parents
- Do not hesitate to report anything suspicious to the police, school authorities and parents