A former Tri-Cities hockey coach accused of making child pornography is facing additional charges after an alleged breach of his court-ordered conditions.
On Dec. 22 the New Westminster Police Department issued an arrest warrant for Coquitlam's Randy Downes, who was reportedly seen near Queens Park Arena on two occasions. Coquitlam RCMP located and arrested Downes the following day, and he has since been charged with two counts of breach of an undertaking in connection with incidents on Dec. 21 and 22.
"Mr. Downes has multiple court ordered conditions, and because of the diligence of the public in reporting the breach, our officers were able to identify him and recommend the appropriate charges," said NWPD's Officer Acting Sgt. Jeff Scott. "We strive to ensure that our city is safe for everyone to enjoy, and we want to thank the public for their assistance in achieving that goal."
Downes has been involved in youth sports across Metro Vancouver for more than 30 years as a hockey and baseball coach, and as a sports photographer.
In October 2017 Coquitlam RCMP announced Downes had been charged with four counts of making child pornography, one count of possession of child pornography and four counts of voyeurism after a six-month investigation initiated after a tip from the BC Integrated Child Exploitation Unit.
At the time, police said the evidence suggested Downes did not have sexual contact with the children in the photographs, and that they were unaware they were being photographed. The photos were taken in a public setting.
After his arrest last month Downes remained in custody until Jan. 19, when he was released on bail with several court-ordered conditions.
His next appearance at B.C. Provincial Court in Port Coquitlam is scheduled for today (Wednesday).
