Image: CFJC Today

By Sydney Chisholm

BCSPCA

Animal Protection impersonator trying to seize dogs in Kamloops

Aug 11, 2023 | 6:16 PM

KAMLOOPS — According to reports from the BCSPCA, someone in Kamloops has been attempting to seize animals by pretending to be an animal protection officer.

“They went up to the individual and stated that they were a peace officer and they needed to take custody of that person’s animal,” Special Provincial Cst. Jamie Wiltse, with BCSPCA Animal Protection Services.

“There is a process involved in an investigation. A special constable or animal protection officer would never just walk up to someone without presenting them with an I.D., wearing a uniform or a marked vehicle.”

Wiltse said there are very few times an officer would seize an animal without a warrant.

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“The only instance where we might seize an animal without a warrant to search, would be critical distress– so that animal is dying, the owner can’t be found or the owner isn’t taking steps to relieve that distress,” she told CFJC News.

“I think it’s important for the public to understand the process involved.”

While the BCSPCA would like to think the impersonator has good intentions– wanting to help an animal in distress, there had been no complaints filed against the owners who were approached.

“We’ve all heard stories of people who have had their pets stolen. Sometimes designer breeds will get stolen,” Daria Evans Kamloops BCSPCA, Animal care manager said.

“I think if that’s this person’s intent if they are looking for a dog, there are certainly better ways to go about it.”

Peace officers are investigating the legitimacy of the claims before involving the RCMP.

Those convicted of impersonating a peace officer can face up to five years in prison.

Pet owners are encouraged to ask questions if approached by an animal protection officer directly.

“One thing you can look for is the uniform I’m wearing. All of our constables do wear this uniform, we also do wear a badge,” Wiltse said.

“We are appointed as peace officers under the police act, and we do also have I.D. cards so that is something you can request from an officer if you are trying to figure out if they are legitimately with our department.”