Police look at likely suspects in case
A 67-year-old man left homeless after an arson in Willowbrook last month is wondering if there is any justice left in the world.
Dave Chaplin’s house at 528 Orofino Creek Road was torched on September 17.
Three young males on dirt bikes and a female were seen in the area prior to the fire, resulting in the RCMP seeking the public’s help in identifying them.
Chaplin was attending a funeral in Saskatchewan at the time and was notified by a neighbour.
“I lost everything, everything I ever owned,” said Chaplin, who was “too shy” to seek help from victim services.
“I’m not asking for sympathy. I just want people to know the magnitude of the crimes perpetrated in their community.”
Chaplin said his house and contents were not insured. He is currently using his pension fund to rent an apartment in Penticton.
“If I didn’t have a pension, I’d be up shit creek without a paddle . . . excuse the language,” the humble man said.
Besides losing his home, Chaplin said he couldn’t believe the looting that went on afterwards. Some people scooped up tools and other equipment from his yard.
“They even stole my firewood. I can’t believe it . . . it’s like going to a graveyard and desecrating the graves.”
Another frustrating thing for Chaplin is not hearing back from the RCMP. He noted the Oliver detachment has not been forthcoming in disclosing the progress on the investigation.
“I want to see people brought to justice. I want to see arrests,” Chaplin said.
The man told the Chronicle that he saw three young males (with a female) on motorbikes before he left for Saskatchewan. A neighbour also caught them on Chaplin’s land prior to the arson.
Sergeant Ken Harrington of the Oliver RCMP said they are still investigating the case, and no charges have yet been laid. However, likely suspects have been identified, he pointed out.
Harrington said the investigating officer has returned Chaplin’s calls (phone tag scenario), but the two haven’t been able to connect.
“Sad situation for sure. It’s the risks of rural living unfortunately. Wish we could do more but sometimes knowing and proving are part of our biggest frustration,” Harrington said.
As for justice, the commander said what justice misses, karma catches later on. It can just take longer and the consequence cannot be appealed, he stated.
Lyonel Doherty
Oliver Chronicle
