New Westminster – On Monday morning, September 4th, the New Westminster Police received a 9-1-1 call from someone who had been sexually assaulted and was now unlawfully confined inside an apartment unit.
After the caller provided a description of her surroundings patrol officers arrived on scene and confirmed she was being held inside an apartment unit on Hospital Street against her will. The victim attempted to climb over a balcony, however she was pulled back inside by the suspect. After approximately 90 minutes of negotiations and with the assistance of the Lower Mainland District Emergency Response Team, the suspect surrendered.
The victim was transported to local hospital. This incident is now being investigated by the New Westminster Police Department Major Crime Unit. The relationship between the suspect and victim is still being investigated by police, but this incident is isolated and there is no increased risk to the public.
Philip Beynon, a 43 year old resident from New Westminster has been charged with sexual assault and unlawful confinement.
“We commend the bravery it took for this person to call 9-1-1,” stated Sergeant Justine Thom. “We’d also like thank neighbours in the area for their patience and cooperation as we took this suspect into custody.”
The New Westminster Police Department is asking anyone who has information about this incident.
