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RCMP identify mom of infant abandoned in Port Coquitlam

Investigation is continuing and baby is now in government care

Coquitlam RCMP confirmed Tuesday they have found the mother of a newborn who appeared to have been abandoned outside a Port Coquitlam townhouse complex on Saturday.

Coquitlam RCMP Major Crime Section has identified a Port Coquitlam woman who is believed to be the child’s mother. She does not have a history with police.

And while neither the baby nor the mother are being identified, police say both are receiving hospital and community care, although the infant hasn’t been returned to the mom.

“The child is in care right now of the Ministry of Family and Child Development,” said Cpl. Michael McLaughlin, adding that the next phase of the investigation is underway, with the possibility of charges after conferring with the BC Prosecution Service.

“We have collected quite a bit of forensic evidence,” said McLaughlin, who told the Tri-City News that police had a good idea of who the mother was 24 hours after the call came in at 1 p.m. Saturday in the 2300 block of Ranger Lane in PoCo.

Further investigation by the RCMP Major Crime Section confirmed the identification.

In a statement, police said the baby is now recovering well.

McLaughlin said he wouldn’t speculate as to what charges could be laid and said it would be up to the BC Prosecution Service to decide based on evidence and taking into account what is in the public interest.

“It’s our responsibility to look at each case impartially and determine whether there’s a threshold that’s been met in terms of criminal charges, we can’t follow emotions,” said McLaughlin, although he agreed the case was distressing.

“It’s always very sad, but our main priority is safety.”

Police noted in a statement that the incident is isolated and there is no broader risk to the public.