Vernon theft suspect arrested after trying to hide from police in restaurant booth

VERNON – A suspected thief has been arrested after trying to hide from police in a booth at an Earls restaurant in Vernon last week.

According to a Vernon RCMP media release issued today, Jan. 30, the 33-year-old Vernon woman attempted to steal cash from the till of a downtown business in the 3334 block of 30 Avenue on Jan. 23.

Confronted by staff, the suspect returned the money and took off on foot. The business owner called police and gave them updates while following the woman down the street.

The suspect was located by police attempting to hide in a booth at Earls restaurant. Police found a small pocket knife and drug paraphernalia after searching her.

The suspect was held in custody and appeared in court Jan. 24 on charges related to theft, obstruction, possession of a scheduled substance and possession of a prohibited weapon contrary to a probation order. RCMP say the woman was later released from custody with no charge.

"The RCMP does not recommend putting yourself at risk when an incident like this should occur by attempting to follow or apprehend a suspect. It's not worth the risk when you don't know who you are dealing with," Vernon RCMP spokesperson Const. Kelly Brett said in the release. "This particular business owner was smart to keep a good distance away, but able to give a clear direction of travel and the last known location of the suspect to police."

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