By Sebastian Kanally, Times Chronicle
Lloyd John Baptiste, locally known as LJ, is behind bars and is facing two separate matters before the court, each with two charges. His October 27, 2022 offenses are breaking and entering with intent to commit offense, and possession of stolen property (PSP) under $5,000.
Baptiste appeared in court on Feb. 15 to retain legal counsel. M. Patterson is now representing him, they both appeared in court via video.
It was mentioned in his court appearance that Global Grocers at 5638 Highway 3A in Oliver was one of the victims of this break and enter. Baptiste was found with “items and coins” from the establishment.
His matter is now pushed to March 15, 2023 to enable him to consult council.
Sgt. Wrigglesworth, in his Protective Services update to the Regional District of the Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) said that they believe Baptiste “is responsible for 40 of the 45 break and enters that happened” in a particularly rough three months that the Town of Oliver experienced with break and enters.
Baptiste also has a second matter before the court for breaking and entering and possession of stolen property that occurred on Feb 5, which resulted in him being taken into custody.
