POLICE – Underage beachfront partying leads to assault reports

Kamloops RCMP are asking parents to talk with their kids about the dangers and consequences associated with partying in public parks, following several recent reports.

Last weekend, a beachfront party near the 200-block of Kitchener Crescent led to numerous calls to police and multiple assault investigations.

On Sept. 10, 2022, around 11 p.m., police were called after a youth was located intoxicated and unconscious near a beach party of what was reported to have about 50 teenagers in attendance.

The youth was transported to hospital by ambulance. Later, police received additional information indicating the youth had also been assaulted by a small group of teenagers. The victim received non-life threatening injuries.

“While responding to the party on Sept. 10, police officers on scene were met with another assault allegation, as well as several verbally aggressive and confrontational parties,” said Cpl. Crystal Evelyn.

The next day, the Kamloops detachment received another assault report stemming from the same party, this one involving two other youths who had been attacked by a small group of teens, at least one of which was also a suspect in a previous report at the same event.

“Police are working in partnership with the School District 73 in response to the recent allegations and safety planning,” added Cpl. Evelyn.

She said that, throughout the summer, police and Community Service Officers responded to party complaints at other city locations, including Pioneer Park, which involved underage drinking, drug use, fighting, weapon possession and use, causing disturbances, vandalism, and other illegal activities.

“We are asking parents and guardians to talk to youth about what responsible behaviour looks like, before police have to get involved, issue tickets, and make arrests,” said Cpl. Evelyn.

Anyone who witnessed, has video, or information related to these investigations is asked to contact the Kamloops RCMP Detachment at 250-828-3000.