UPDATE: Police have confirmed the two suspects have been arrested.

On December 14, 2020, after identifying the couple with video surveillance, the Quesnel RCMP arrested the couple. When they were searched, the police located several items and financial cards belonging to the woman.

A 41 year old male and 26 year old female are facing charges of theft, possession of stolen property, and fraud. The couple appear in court for first appearance on February 23, 2021. Their names are not being released at this time.

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QUESNEL, BC: Police in Quesnel are continuing to search for two suspects after a goodwill gesture went wrong…

Police say on December 8, 2020, at approximately 5:45 pm, a senior was having difficulty making a deposit at a local bank ATM. An unknown male and female came to her aid and after the deposit was made, the couple helped the female walk to her car.

The couple told her they hadn’t eaten for a while and asked for money. In true Christmas spirit, she gave them twenty dollars for food. When they asked for a ride down the street, she graciously agreed due to the poor weather. When the couple exited the car, they slammed her door and quickly walked away.

When she got home, the senior noticed her purse had been stolen by the couple. Before she could cancel her bank cards, her account had already been drained of $400 from a fraudulent ATM withdraw. It is believed the couple watched the senior enter her PIN number when they assisted her at the bank.

“Unfortunately there are people in the world who prey on those who are trying to do the right thing,” said Sgt. Richard Weseen. “This couple saw an opportunity to victimize an elderly lady, and they befriended her, all in an effort to steal from her. All she was trying to do was help them.”

The Quesnel RCMP urges the public to donate to food banks and other non-profit groups if they wish to help the homeless and vulnerable people, rather than provide cash to panhandlers. Be aware of your surroundings and of any suspicious people that may be attempting to obtain your PIN number or banking information.

The male was described as Caucasian, 5’8, medium build, and wearing a dark jacket and a mask. The female suspect was First Nations, slim build, light coloured hair, and wearing a dark jacket and a black mask.

The investigation is continuing. If you have any information regarding this incident, please call the Quesnel RCMP at (250) 992-9211, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.