Vernon RCMP nab suspected thief after spate of break-ins

Vernon RCMP has arrested a 45-year-old man in relation to a spate of break-ins in downtown.

According to a Vernon North Okanagan RCMP media release, police responded to a series of break-ins between the evening of Jan. 17 and the morning of Jan. 18.

Multiple businesses were targeted and saw damage and theft in the 2900-block of 30 Avenue, the 3300-block of 30 Avenue, and the 3400-block of 31 Avenue throughout the night.

Police says that evidence collected during the investigation led to the identification and arrest of the suspect. He didn't get far and Daniel Chester Lompart was arrested Jan. 18.

He is now charged with: two counts of break and enter, along with mischief and damage to property under $5,000, break and enter and theft, the possession of stolen property under $5,000, and theft under $5,000.

Lompart was also charged with two counts of failing to comply with a release order.

"Property crime negatively affects not only our hard-working business owners, but our entire community," Vernon RCMP Const. Chris Terleski said in a media release. "The determined effort by our officers in collecting evidence, chasing down leads and sharing information ultimately led to the successful outcome of these investigations and demonstrates our commitment to apprehending those responsible for these crimes."

Lompart remains in custody with his next court appearance scheduled for Jan. 27.

Court records show Lompart has a lengthy criminal record with charges for assault and uttering threats among others.

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