RCMP refute Facebook postings; caution against using social media for crime reporting
By Kyra Hoggan
Castlegar RCMP are cautioning residents that using Facebook as a method of reporting crime in the city is both dangerous and irresponsible – largely because heresay often gets the facts all wrong.
Castlegar RCMP Cpl. Deb Postnikoff explains:
“Claims made on Facebook of a female being chased by unknown assailants in the downtown core of Castlegar in early October are not true,” she said. “A local resident alerted police to a female who had entered his house uninvited claiming to be chased by numerous males. Police located the intoxicated and disoriented female inside the residence, located in the 100 Block of Crescent Street.
“It was learned that this female was recently involved in a domestic verbal dispute. She reiterated that in fact she was not assaulted, injured or chased, although she was intoxicated and confused after departing a house party.
“The female was escorted to her home without incident. Police are pursuing charges of breach of conditions against the other party involved in the verbal dispute,” she added.
Postnikoff said Facebook reports of a series of related rapes are likewise false.
“Police confirm an investigation is taking place involving a complaint of an alleged sexual assault that occurred near the parking lot area of Millennium Park during the first week of October 2009,” she said. “It is important to advise the community that there is absolutely no connection between the two files and police do not feel Castlegar is being threatened by a group of individuals assaulting women.
“Police are not releasing any further information at this time, as this could jeopardize the ongoing investigation.”
She said due diligence is still worthwhile in protecting oneself from crime, but there’s no cause for heightened concern.
“However, people are reminded to remain cautious of their surroundings at all times when walking at night and contact the police should they witness anything or anyone suspicious,” she said.
Finally, she pointed out that crimes should be reported to police, not as unconfirmed rumour on Facebook or in any other widespread medium that might cause public panic.
“Police also caution individuals to report any allegations to police prior to posting them on a public website,” she said.
To report a crime, call the Castlegar RCMP detachment at 250-365-7721.
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