One shoplifter pulled a knife, another used bear spray

Vancouver Police are investigating two incidents of attempted shoplifting over the past week that had the potential to turn violent.

On December 6, just after 12 p.m., a male was seen stealing alcohol from the BC Liquor Store on Commercial Drive at Grant Street. He was arrested by a loss prevention officer, and while in handcuffs, he pulled a knife and fled. Vancouver Police arrived, and located and arrested the suspect.

Tyler Fitzpatrick, a 20-year-old man with no fixed address, was charged with several offences related to the incident. He was also wanted on warrants across the province and remains in custody.

A second incident on December 8, at about 3:30 p.m., involved a man who allegedly tried to steal clothing worth hundreds of dollars from the Lululemon store at West 4th Avenue and Arbutus Street. When he was stopped by the loss prevention officer, he used a can of bear spray to threaten him and then fled. A short time later, a woman believed to be his accomplice entered the store and tried to steal clothing. She was deterred by the loss prevention officer. Vancouver Police attended, located both suspects, and placed them under arrest.

Andre Goudrea, 40, and Patricia Dove, 41, both Vancouver residents, were charged with several offences and are in custody.

“Loss prevention officers sometimes have a tough job,” says Sergeant Aaron Roed, VPD. “Thieves can be unpredictable, and we never want someone to get hurt over stolen property.”

Last month, the VPD completed a special three-week project targeting shoplifters in downtown Vancouver that resulted in 25 arrests. Additional specialized projects targeting thieves and shoplifters are planned for this month.

Find more information on crime prevention and safety for businesses.

Anyone who witnesses a theft in progress is asked to call 9-1-1.