Richmond RCMP and the Vancouver Police Department teamed up to arrest a 24-year-old man suspected of being behind a crime spree.
Xiao 'Sean' Zhang is facing eight counts of theft under $5,000 after being arrested by police on Nov. 18.
Since late July the Richmond RCMP has observed a sharp increase in thefts of cellular phones.
And, as thefts of cell phones were also prevalent in Vancouver, a joint investigation began between the two forces in hopes of catching the person responsible. Together, numerous incidents were linked to one person - Zhang.
Investigators from Richmond RCMP identified eight incidents that occurred between July 31 and Aug. 28 where iPhones and Blackberrys were stolen. In each of these incidents, the suspect descriptions were consistent, as well as the suspect's distinct modus operandi.
It is alleged that in these eight incidents, Zhang contacted individuals that were selling their cell phones on Craigslist, with the specific intent to steal the phones.
Zhang, according to police, stated to his victims that he was interested in purchasing the cell phone and would consequently set up a meeting in order to facilitate the buy. Once with the seller, Zhang provided reasonable explanations as to why he needed to physically handle the cell phone.
Once Zhang had the phone in his possession, he fled the scene without paying, according to the RCMP press release.
Investigators believe that Zhang may be responsible for similar cell phone thefts in Richmond and, as such, are encouraging anyone who may have been a victim to Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212. If you wish to remain anonymous, please call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
