Chilliwack RCMP arrest suspected bike thief with cache of illegal items

CHILLIWACK — A routine patrol of a commercial complex on Vedder Road by members of the Chilliwack RCMP Community Response Team (CRT) resulted in a surprising discovery and the arrest of a 32-year-old man recently. He was alleged to be in possession of a suspected stolen e-bike. However, the subsequent investigation uncovered a cache of illegal items, resulting in additional charges against the suspect.

The arrest was made possible following the confirmation of the e-bike’s description and serial number. Investigators were able to match the information to a recent theft report. Corporal Brad Rendall of the Upper Fraser Valley Regional Detachment commended CRT for their proactive approach. “By accurately reporting the description and serial number of the e-bike, CRT was able to confirm the bike was stolen and make the arrest, as well as seize weapons, suspected drugs, and money.”

The suspect is identified as Alexander Schmautz. He faces charges of Possession of Property Obtained by Crime, Possession of Break-In Instruments, and Possessing a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose. He is scheduled to appear in Chilliwack Provincial Court next week.

Upon searching Schmautz, the police discovered a substantial amount of evidence, including $2000.00 in cash, blank cheques under another person’s name, suspected drugs identified as Fentanyl and Methamphetamine with the intent to traffic, a knife, and a replica Glock BB handgun.