The RCMP has condemned the “shameful” theft of a plaque commemorating three officers who were killed in the line of duty.
Supt. Sydney Lecky, the officer in charge of the Kamloops RCMP Detachment, said it was “really sad” that the memorial – in Peterson Creek Park – had been disrespected.
The brass plaque that was taken was mounted on a stone column in the park and paid tribute to Elwood Joseph Keck, Gordon Eric Pedersen and Donald George Weisgerber.
The three officers were shot and killed near the column on June 18, 1962 while responding to a call about a man with a gun.
Police were told about the theft on Monday morning.
They are now asking for people in the area to be on the lookout for the plaque.
“For someone to deface and steal a memorial honouring constables who died while trying to protect the residents of this community is really sad, it’s shameful to say the least,” said Supt. Lecky.
“I can’t imagine how the families of these constables, and of the countless other constables who risk their lives on behalf of this city, must feel knowing someone would steal a plaque recognizing their sacrifice.”
Supt. Lecky added: “Someone knows what happened to the plaque. Please do the right thing and return the plaque to the Kamloops RCMP or the Peterson Creek Park.”
Anyone with information about the theft is asked to call the Kamloops RCMP at 250-828-3000 and reference file 2021-25646.
