A 39-year-old man who police believe is responsible for a string of thefts in Richmond, Port Moody, New Westminster and Kelowna is facing charges after being arrested in Coquitlam this week.
Paul Hebert was allegedly driving a stolen vehicle when the Coquitlam RCMP's Prolific Target Team caught up with him on June 18. Police said a helicopter was called in to assist in the arrest and the suspect was taken into custody without incident.
"Having teams such as this, combined with the dedicated efforts of surrounding police agencies and specialized teams, allows officers to proactively focus on those who commit the majority of crimes," said assistant commission Dan Malo, the officer in charge of the RCMP Lower Mainland District. "This targeted focus helps drive down overall crime statistics and protects the communities these individuals re-offend in."
Police had been searching for the suspect since last fall, but fingerprints found on a stolen vehicle in Coquitlam earlier this month made Hebert a priority.
He is now facing one count of possession of stolen property over $5,000, two counts of possession of stolen property under $5,000 and a charge of driving while prohibited. He also has 12 outstanding arrest warrants from more than five jurisdictions.
Hebert has been held in custody since his arrest and is scheduled to appear in Port Coquitlam Provincial Court on June 30.
