Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
At the beginning of this month, 29-year-old Joel Rich Jr. was apprehended by RCMP Police Service Dog (PSD) Phox following a break, enter and theft that occurred at a home in Happy Valley-Goose Bay while occupants were inside.
Shortly before 6:00 p.m. on January 1, 2025, Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP received the report. An unknown man was discovered inside the residence by an occupant of the home. After being confronted by the home occupant, the man fled from the residence on foot with a number of stolen items.
RCMP PSD Phox and his handler were engaged, attended the scene and conducted a track. After the suspect left the residence, further information received indicated that he was in possession of a weapon. The suspect, Joel Rich, was located a short distance away by PSD Phox and was apprehended. He was found in possession of a bow and arrow and a knife, which were seized by police.
Rich attended court and was remanded into custody. He is charged with the following criminal offences:
- Break and enter
- Theft under $5000.00
- Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose – two counts
- Possession of break in tools/instruments
- Possession of property obtained by crime
- Resisting arrest
- Failing to comply with a condition of a release order
His next court appearance is set for January 23, 2025.
RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.