Sooke man criminally charged after leading police into a false investigation

A Sooke man has been charged with public mischief and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal after allegedly misleading police into false allegations.

On September 6, 2023, Sooke RCMP were contacted by an individual who alleged he was on a walk with his dog and two young children in the golf course area of Throup Rd and Charters Rd when a stranger attacked his dog with a blunt object. The dog suffered a broken jaw and was subsequently euthanized as a result of the injury.

A thorough and comprehensive investigation was conducted in order to factually verify the information provided, which included a review and analysis of multiple surveillance video sources and interviews. The individual was ultimately presented with those facts and admitted to having fabricated the story.

After the initial report to police, the incident was spread over social media, causing outrage and criticism in the community, said S/Sgt. Greg Willcocks, detachment commander for Sooke RCMP. Sooke RCMP received multiple phone calls voicing concern about the attack since it allegedly occurred during school hours, inside of a major school zone area. The concern from the community was palpable as demonstrated by the volume of media inquiries as well as inquiries from concerned community stakeholders such as counsellors and the mayor in regard to this incident.

We are appreciative of the strong and ongoing collaborative relationship that exists between the school district and the Sooke RCMP, said Sooke School District Superintendent Scott Stinson. Their immediate notification that there was no threat to students or staff and was reassuring and allowed the school to continue their day and regular dismissal without interruption.

32-year-old Derek Reid of Sooke has been charged with public mischief and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. He is set to appear in court on January 4, 2024.

Sooke RCMP remains committed to getting its community safe while maintaining the integrity of its investigations. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sooke RCMP at 250-642-5241.