Supt. Andrew Burton

Oct. 7,2024

New Officer in Charge

for the Nanaimo RCMP

The Nanaimo RCMP and the City of Nanaimo are pleased to announce the appointment of Inspector Andrew Burton as Superintendent and detachment Commander for the Nanaimo RCMP. Superintendent Burton brings extensive experiences from his 30-years of police service where he worked in Serious Crimes, Indigenous Policing, Drug Enforcement, Street Crimes and General Duty as a front-line officer. Notably, he served 12 years with the RCMP Emergency Response Team.

Superintendent Burton, who has been the Acting Officer in Charge (OIC) for the past year, was born in London, England. At an early age, his family immigrated to Canada and settled in Port Alberni where he would spend most of his formative years.

In 1993, Superintendent Burton began his pursuit of being a Mountie by first attending French language training in Montreal followed by RCMP Training in Regina Saskatchewan. After graduation his first postings took him to Smithers then Bella Coola, followed by Kamloops and then back to Bella Coola, where he was promoted to Corporal and Detachment Commander.

Superintendent Burton and his then young family were next off to Merritt, and then to Port Alberni. From Port Alberni it was onto Quesnel for promotions to Sergeant in charge of Operations, and eventually Staff Sergeant as the Detachment Commander. After Quesnel, he was commissioned to the rank of Inspector and posted to RCMP Headquarters in Regina. Superintendent Burton’s last transfer brought him to Nanaimo, where prior to his promotion to Superintendent, he was the officer in charge of Operations Support.

Superintendent Burton is married with two adult children. When asked what the position of Detachment Commander for the Nanaimo RCMP means to him, he said,” I am honored and excited to have been selected as the new Officer in Charge for Nanaimo detachment. This role represents tremendous responsibility, and I remain committed to serving our communities with integrity, hard work and dedication. Serving alongside the professional and dedicated team of police officers and support staff at our detachment is a privilege and I look forward to our future challenges and successes as we continue to uphold our high standards.”

“On behalf of the City of Nanaimo, I would like to congratulate Superintendent Andrew Burton as the new Officer in Charge of the Nanaimo RCMP,” said Mayor Leonard Krog. “We would also like to thank him for his leadership and dedication over the past year as Acting Officer in Charge. With his decades of diverse experience and commitment to public service, we are confident that he will continue to uphold the safety and security of our community with the utmost professionalism. We look forward to working closely with Superintendent Burton and his team as we face the challenges and opportunities ahead together.”

Keeping kids safe is

everyone’s responsibility

To assist with the safety of students as they head back to school, the Nanaimo RCMP have provided some common-sense safety tips for both parents, caregivers and students.

Parents/Caregivers/Motorists

• When a school bus is stopped and its flashing lights are activated, motorists in both directions must stop. Even if the red lights are not flashing and you see children boarding, play it safe and wait to the bus starts moving
• When your children are getting out of your vehicle, have them leave through the door closest to the sidewalk 

Speed zones

• School Zones are 30 km/h from 8 AM to 5 PM during designated school days
• Designated playgrounds: 30 km/h dawn to dusk, 7 days a week 

Pedestrian safety

• Look both ways- this is the big one! This means to not only look both ways but ensure you make eye contact with the driver of the approaching vehicle
• Make sure approaching vehicles are slowing down before you cross the road
• Cross only at designated intersections
• Parents: check those backpacks to ensure they fit properly and are not overloaded
• When riding a bike, dismount and walk your bike across the intersection

Street Smarts

• Adults- remind children to NEVER accept a ride with people they don’t know
• Set up a safe word to be used when your child is being picked up by someone other than yourself
• If a motorist stops to ask your child questions, remind your child never go within 2 arm lengths of the vehicle
• Earbuds and intersections don’t mix- head up, look right and left, make eye contact

The Nanaimo RCMP will be out on full-force patrolling school zones to ensure the safety of all students. Please be responsible and reduce your speeds accordingly. We need your help keeping our children and roads safe. If you have any questions about posted speeds or traffic safety, please call our non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.

Nanaimo incident report August 20 to 23

Extortion file # 2024-27114

On August 21, 2024 a man reported being extorted for $1500 after sending nude pictures of himself to an individual on a website called Hinged. After sending a lesser amount the complainant decided to call the police and break off communication with the individual. The complainant realized that he really had no idea who he was communicating with and took this as a learning lesson. Note: Its never a good idea to send nude pictures to anyone online.

Theft from vehicle file # 2024-27160

On August 20, 2024 a vehicle owner had his vehicle broken into while he was out for a hike. The vehicle had been parked along the side of Nanaimo River Road near South Forks Road. Items taken were sunglasses, a Sony camera and binoculars. Note: Thieves often target vehicles parked road side or at trailheads. Where possible remove all valuables from plain view of prying eyes.

Injured beaver file # 2024-27397

On August 22, 2024 police were dispatched to assist with an injured beaver that had been struck multiple times by passing vehicles on Harwood Road. Unfortunately, the injuries to the beaver were critical and it could not be saved. Note: if you come across an injured animal the first call for assistance should be to BC Conservation at 1-877-952-7277. The line is answered 24/7 and they will make the determination if police are required to attend.

Mischief to golf carts file # 2024-27316

On Thursday August 22, 2024 a resident on Protection Island reported that their golf cart had been taken from their driveway and replaced with an unknown cart. It was also reported that eight other carts and been taken from homes and moved to various locations around the island. The caller had no idea who was behind this and assumed it was a prank. The caller was quick to down play any concern there was a serial golf cart thief running rampant on the island.

Break and Enter to school file # 2024-27405

At approximately 1 AM on Friday August 23, 2024 a break and enter was reported at Rock City Elementary. Police attended and found that the door to the kitchen kicked in. Investigators believe the only item taken appeared to be ice cream bars, as an empty container was found nearby. The sweet tooth culprits were apparently not interested in anything else as a number of computer and iPads were left untouched. The roof may have provided access to the interior so it has been reinforced to prevent a repeat kitchen attack.

Impaired driving file # 2024-27435

At approximately 9 AM on August 23, 2024 police responded to report of a possible impaired driver on the Nanaimo Parkway near Jingle Pot Road. The caller said a newer model Ford Shelby was seen being driven recklessly. A description of the vehicle, driver and direction of travel was provided. Unfortunately, the vehicle was not found. Note: if you suspect a driver is impaired, do not wait until you arrive a home to call the police. Call 911 immediately.

RCMP recover hand-held tools

On August 20, Nanaimo RCMP seized a number of hand-held tools from several individuals in the area of Bing Kee Street.

The two men who were in possession of the items were both known to police and known to be involved in property related crimes. When the officer asked how they had come into possession of the tools, their answers were not satisfactory and only raised suspicion. As a result, the officer seized the tools and held themfor safe keeping.

If anyone recognizes these items, please call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.

Crime Log Aug. 14 to 16

Break and Enter

File # 2024-26227

At approximately 5 am Wednesday August 14, 2024 a break and enter was reported at the Nanaimo Curling Club. Police attended and found the side door to the building pried open. Taken were four specialized tools used in refrigeration repair. No suspects or witnesses at this time.

Mischief Nanaimo

File # 2024-26239

At approximately 9:45 Am on August 14, 2024 a report was received of a lit cigarette being discarded by a driver of a vehicle proceeding southbound on the Nanaimo Parkway. The complainant provided a license plate number and description of the vehicle to the police and charges are being considered. Note: It is unlawful and dangerous to discard flammable materials in public places. This can lead to a fine or if a fire is the result of your actions, it may lead to criminal charges.

Theft from unlocked vehicles File # 2024-26234

Sometime over night on August 14, 2024 two unlocked vehicles parked on Woodridge Road in Cedar were rummaged through and items taken. In one, a black Platypus backpack that contained mountain bike riding gloves, a Leatherman multitool and a spare tire for a bike were taken. Note: Forty-percent of all theft from vehicles are from unlocked vehicles.

Theft from unlocked vehicles File # 2024-26223

On the same night, two other unlocked vehicles on Quail Grove Place in were unlawfully entered and items taken. Taken were men’s wallets containing debit cards, credit cards and SIN cards. The debit and credit cards have been cancelled. NOTE: Men’s wallets are one of the most common items stolen from vehicles. One item that should never be left in an unattended wallet is your SIN card. It can be used by criminals, along with other personal ID cards, to set up bank accounts and even establish a line of credit in your name.

Suspicious person Nanaimo

File # 2024-26221

At approximately 5 am on August 14, 2024 police responded to report of a man seen peering into vehicles parked along Blueback Road. The caller provided a description of a man riding a BMX bike and wearing a burgundy jacket and carrying a black backpack. Police patrolled the area for the man but could not locate him. Note: Criminals who target vehicles late at night are often located by the police when the public takes the time to report the suspicious activity. If you find yourself up late at night, take a few seconds to look out your window to see what is moving in your neighborhood. If you see something that doesn’t look right, call it in.

Fraud Nanaimo

File # 2024-18875

Recently, a Nanaimo man reported falling victim to a fraud that spanned several years. The victim told police that the fraud started when the victim responded to a message sent to him on FB Messenger from a friend from high school. This friend told the victim about a US government grant related to COVID where he could receive upwards of $90,000. The victim called he number provided and was notified that the money would be delivered to him through Fed Ex. Many phone calls later, the victim was contacted and told that the truck carrying his grant money had been stopped and that the money had been confiscated by the Chemainus RCMP. In order to retrieve the money he was required to purchase gift cards that which eventually totaled $22,000. Note: The victim eventually contacted his friend who said that he did not contact him and that his FB account was hacked. Also, Fed Ex would not require anyone to purchase gift cards in order to have shipment released.

Arrest made in New Year's day incident

Aug. 15, 2024

The Nanaimo RCMP Serious Crime Unit (SCU) has arrested an adult male in connection with a shooting incident that occurred on January 1, 2024. 47-year old Jeffery Benvin was arrested without incident by officers with SCU as a result of an incident that occurred on January 1, 2024 at a south end business. The victim, a 43-year old man, sustained life-threatening injuries after being physically assaulted, and shot by a firearm. The victim was treated at the scene by BCEHS then airlifted to a hospital in Victoria for treatment. He has since been released from hospital and is recovering.

Benvin has been formally charged with Discharge a Firearm with Intent to Disfigure, Aggravated Assault and Use a Firearm while committing and indictable offence. Benvin will be appearing in Nanaimo Provincial Court on Thursday August 15, 2024.

Break and Enter to restaurant

File # 2024-25985

Overnight on Tuesday August 13, the O’Falafel restaurant located at 1588 Boundary Ave was broken into. The front door was smashed by a large rock and entrance gained to the interior. Police found an empty cash box belonging to the business in some bushes behind the restaurant. CCTV camera showed a suspect leaving the business at 5:12 AM carrying a cash box that reportedly held no cash. The suspect was seen wearing a light-colored hoody, dark pants and dark shoes with white laces.

Break and enter to restaurant

File # 2024-25979

Just after 5:30 AM on Monday August 12,2024 Smokin Georges restaurant located at 4131 Mostar Road was broken into. A nearby resident heard glass breaking and called police. Police responded and found the front door smashed open. Police spoke with an employee who said nothing of value was taken or missing.

Theft of mountain bike

File # 2024-25983

Just after 4 am on Monday August 12, 2024 a mountain bike was stolen from an unlocked basement to a residence on Akenhead Road in Cedar. The owner told police he checked his CCTV camera and saw an unidentified man checking the doors to his vehicles. This person then walked into his backyard and opened his basement door. The suspect stole a black Giant 22 bicycle with serial # G6HA35891. CCTV footage showed a male (face not seen), wearing blue jeans, blue jacket and carrying a blue back pack. The suspect may have left along Akenhead Road.

Online fraud

File #2024-26042

Recently a Nanaimo resident entered into an agreement to buy some clothing on the social media platform called Market Place. Once the money was sent to the seller, the recipient stopped responding to messages and the buyer did not receive the item they purchased. Note: Any online purchase has a degree of risk. Before sending cash to someone that you have only met online make sure to review the individuals profile thoroughly and read all customer reviews from previous transactions. Also, if a buyer has few friends or their profile was recently created, these should be red flags for you.

Theft of lawn ornament

File # 2024-26039

Sometime in the past week an 80-pound grey turtle lawn ornament was stolen from the front lawn of a home on Devon Place. The owner believes several very large toads or two strong backed teenagers would be required to carry it away. The owner believes it was taken as a prank and hopefully it will most likely show up on a nearby neighbors’ lawn.

Abandoned 911 calls

File # 2024-26034

At approximately 2:30 PM on Monday August 12, 2024 Nanaimo RCMP received several abandoned 911 calls. Dispatchers advised the attending officers that the calls were shown as coming from a nearby island. Two officers with the assistance of the Nanaimo Port Authority vessel traveled to the island to investigate the calls. Upon arrival the officers located a summer camp consisting of upwards of 15 youths, along with several camp leaders. The officers spoke with one of the camp leaders who was visibly upset by the actions of his group. He assured the officers that he and the other camp leaders would not tolerate this behaviour and would make this a teachable moment for the group. The officers then spoke to the youths around the seriousness of making 911 calls. They pointed out their actions prevented dispatchers and police from dealing with other legitimate police calls. They also pointed out that that the Nanaimo Port Authority vessel and crew who transported the officers were tied up due to the actions of the group and were unable to respond to other marine situations.