‘High-risk violent offender’ arrested following string of thefts in New Maryland, N.B.

An RCMP cruiser is seen in this file photo.

A man police are calling a “high-risk violent offender” has been arrested and is facing charges after a number of thefts in New Maryland, N.B.

The Oromocto RCMP responded to a complaint that someone was trying to steal items from a vehicle in New Maryland on Wednesday. Police say the man fled the scene on foot before officers arrived.

Officers found and arrested the suspect at a nearby business on Route 101 a short time later.

“Police seized several stolen items and a hunting knife during the arrest,” said the RCMP in a news release. “Police believe the items seized are related to several other thefts in the community.”

Matthew Osborne, 33, of Fredericton is facing the following charges:

• four counts of possession of property obtained by crime
• possession of a dangerous weapon
• uttering threats to a police officer

Osborne appeared in Fredericton provincial court on Wednesday. He was released from custody pending a future court appearance.

The RCMP says Osborne was already known to police as a high-risk violent offender.

The Oromocto RCMP is asking anyone with information about the incidents to contact them at 506-357-4300 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

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