By Tyler Waugh / Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) continue the search for a suspect in a June 26 robbery on a trail in Mount Pearl, but in the meantime a community safety group is promoting a new program that can maybe help deter future incidents.
The Mount Pearl Citizens Crime Prevention Committee kicked off its inaugural safety whistle assist program (SWAP) in late spring, with the goal of handing out 1,000 whistles to residents.
“There are situations in parking lots and on the trails, like the one that just happened, where people don’t feel safe. This whistle is a tool that can be used to let people nearby know that you need help, or scares off somebody,” said Rosalind Pratt, chair of the MPCCPC, adding that the committee doesn’t have many whistles remaining.
The incident in question took place a little after 9:30 am in the Carroll Drive area of Mount Pearl, where a female reported she was approached by a man on the Admiralty walking trail. The suspect, described as a tall, thin Caucasian wearing a black hoodie and black pants, presented a weapon and attempted to take her belongings before fleeing the area in the direction of Richard Nolan Drive.
“Operational Patrol Services responded to the call, and immediately engaged Police Dog Services, a drone operator, officers on all-terrain vehicles, as well as Mount Pearl Municipal Enforcement, to assist in the search of the man responsible,” stated a release from the RNC.
The female was treated by paramedics for minor injuries. It is believed the pair were unknown to one another.
The City of Mount Pearl released a statement stating that violence of any kind has no place in the community.
“This incident is understandably concerning. We remain committed to maintaining a safe environment for all residents through ongoing investments in lighting and trail upgrades, ensuring our network continues to be a safe, accessible, and valued community asset,” read the statement from Mount Pearl. “The safety and well-being of our community remains our top priority, and we encourage residents to follow any direction provided by police as the investigation continues.”
The Major Crime Unit continues to investigate the matter and is encouraging anyone who was in the area between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. and who may have information to contact police by calling 709-729-8000.
To provide anonymous information on criminal activity, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com.
Residents looking to contact the crime prevention committee about SWAP, or any of its other initiatives, can email mtpccpc@gmail.com.