Vancouver Police have arrested a man in his 60s whom they suspect has committed "multiple acts of mischief" in Chinatown, according to a press release issued Feb. 2.
The man allegedly wrote graffiti on a building near Abbott and West Pender streets, then tagged a sign near Main and Keefer streets and VPD believe he may also be responsible for vandalism on other properties and landmarks in the neighbourhood.
“We’ve been listening closely to residents and business owners who have concerns about increasing street violence, disorder, and vandalism in Chinatown,” says Sergeant Steve Addison in the release which claims reports of graffiti have increased 455 per cent since 2019.
The investigation is ongoing and the suspect is expected to appear in court on July 31.
"We need time to collect additional evidence that may link the suspect to other crimes in the neighbourhood," Addison tells V.I.A. of the long wait. "Some of this evidence may involve digital forensic examination, which could take extra time."