NEWS RELEASE
August 15, 2019
Official News Release Download
UPDATE - Stranger assault robbery investigation
Abbotsford Police Department Major Crime Detectives have concluded their investigation into this incident. Details have emerged in the investigation that this assault did not occur as initially reported and was influenced by a historical traumatic event that occurred in another province.
There was no assault that occurred on the evening of August 6, in Abbotsford, as previously reported, and there is no risk to public safety.
The AbbyPD investigators will work with community partners to ensure this victim receives appropriate support. The victim would like to offer an apology to our community for causing alarm.
If you are a victim of a crime, current or historical, there is help. Please contact Abbotsford Community Services Specialized Victim Assistance Program or the Abbotsford Police Victim Services Unit ([email protected]) to find resources near you.
INITIAL RELEASE on August 6, 2019
Police Warn Public of Stranger Robbery/Assault
On August 6, 2019, shortly after midnight, a 42-year-old female was assaulted in her back yard in the Clearbrook area, north of Highway 1 in Abbotsford. The investigation is currently being handled by Major Crime detectives and supported by the Patrol Branch.
At the time of the attack, the victim was in her backyard alone on her deck when she was grabbed from behind. The victim received minor injuries during the attack and has been released from hospital. Due to the nature of the attack the victim was unable to describe the attacker in any detail. At this point the suspect is believed to be an adult male. Major Crime detectives are actively investigating to obtain a more detailed description, at which time an updated release will be posted.
The investigation is in the early stages and it appears that the attack was sexually motived. The attacker was not known to the victim. It is believed that the attack ended when a neighbour returned home. The attacker fled with the victim’s electronic device.
The Abbotsford Police would like to remind the public to practice awareness, even in the safety of their own homes and yards. At night, keep outside lights on in the front and back yard. The public is also reminded to report any suspicious persons or activity to police.
The Abbotsford Police Department is appealing to anyone with information about this incident to call us at 604-859-5225, text us at 222973 (abbypd), or to report anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477(TIPS) or online at Solvecrime.ca.
Abby PD file: 19-33584
Release #2
Sgt Judy Bird Phone (604) 864-4899
Abbotsford Police Media Relations Officer [email protected]
2838 Justice Way, Abbotsford, BC V2T 3P5 Fax: (604) 859-2527