Man arrested in Richmond on 2 outstanding warrants faces 2 new charges

A man who was wanted on a Canada-wide warrant for allegedly robbing a senior citizen in Vancouver last year was arrested in Richmond this past week and now faces two new charges.

In a release today, Richmond RCMP said that on February 6, police were conducting “targeted enforcement” of auto vehicle theft in Richmond, when they observed a male “allegedly trying door handles on multiple parked cars.”

The man was taken into police custody as a result of his actions and was ultimately identified as Coleton Szalay, who was wanted on a Canada-wide warrant after being identified last year by the VPD as one of the suspects involved in the robbery of a 77-year-old Vancouver resident. He was also previously wanted for theft under $5,000 out of Richmond.

Now, police said, two new charges have been laid against Szalay for possession of credit card data and possession of stolen property under $5,000. He has been remanded and remains in custody.

• See also:
  • Canada-wide warrant issued for man accused of robbing elderly Vancouverite
  • Police searching for truck driver behind several reported hit-and-runs
  • Two men arrested in connection with 2019 murder of Vancouver man

“We are actively out there targeting people who are attempting to commit crimes in Richmond,” said Richmond RCMP Cpl. Tibor Paldy.

In light of these recent incidents and Szalay’s arrest, police are also reminding people to not leave anything in their vehicles.

“We regularly see wallets, electronics, back packs and other valuables left in cars,” said Paldy. “By always taking these items with you, we can eliminate the ability for these opportunistic criminals to operate in Richmond.”