Gang unit arrests 'violent offender' who allegedly hit cruiser fleeing traffic stop
A man who has a “history of violence” was arrested in Surrey’s Newton neighbourhood by RCMP on Thursday night, after attempting to flee a traffic stop.
In a release, police said that shortly before 6 pm, officers with the Surrey Gang Enforcement Unit attempted a traffic stop with a car driving in the 14400-block of 80th Avenue.
The car, a 2005 Mazda 3, initially stopped before reversing into the police vehicle and fleeing. Police did not pursue the car, but other officers patrolling in the area were able to quickly locate the car in a nearby cul-du-sac, and saw two men running away.
One of the men was found and arrested in the 8300 block of 140th Street, but police were unable to locate the other man. Police said the man they arrested was the driver.
Now, 24-year-old Vancouver resident Matthew Porter has been charged with two counts of Assaulting a Peace Officer, one count of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, and one count of failing to stop for police.
During the investigation police also located a quantity of suspected illicit drugs, and other items they say are consistent with drug trafficking.
“Our Gang Enforcement team continues to work against drug trafficking by intercepting and investigating criminals who operate in our city,” said Surrey RCMP Cpl. Elenore Sturko. “A simple traffic stop can often be the first step in a larger investigation, and criminal charges.”
Anyone with more information is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 or, if they wish to remain anonymous to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or leave a tip online.
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