'Series of indecent acts' in busy Metro Vancouver park under police investigation
The Burnaby RCMP’s High Risk Offender Unit have launched an investigation after a concerning series of indecent acts were reported to have taken place in a busy local park and along a trail in the city.
According to police, five incidents have been reported over a five-day period, from Thursday, Jan. 15, to Tuesday, Jan. 20.
Each reported incident involved a man who was “committing indecent acts ranging from public nudity to masturbation.”
Four of the incidents took place in areas of Central Park, and one occurred along the Highland Park Trail near Beresford Street and Magnolia Terrace in Burnaby.
Burnaby RCMP
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“Our investigators are piecing together information reported by the victims in each of these incidents, including suspect descriptions, to look for any similarities and develop a comprehensive picture of the person or persons responsible so we can share more information with the public,” said Cpl. Laura Hirst, Media Relations Officer with the Burnaby RCMP, in a release.
“In the meantime, we want to ensure people are informed and aware of these incidents so they can remain vigilant and take precautions.”
All five indecent incidents took place during evening hours when it was already dark outside.
JamesChen/Shutterstock
Investigators with the High Risk Offender Unit are conducting interviews and gathering additional evidence, including CCTV footage.
According to authorities, this is being done in order to establish whether any of these incidents may be connected as well as to identify a suspect in the crimes.
“People can expect to see enhanced police patrols and presence around the related locations, including bike and foot patrols, and police vehicles,” added Cpl. Hirst.
“We also want to remind park and trail users to stay aware of their surroundings, walk or run with another person or group if possible, and immediately report any suspicious behaviour you may observe to police.”
The Burnaby RCMP is asking anyone with information about these incidents to contact them at 604-646-9999.