Potential for additional victims considered after Alberta stalking incident

James Alfred Finch, 51, of Wetaskiwin, Alta., and his vehicle, a 1999 silver Ford F150 with a dark topper. (Lethbridge police handout)

A central Alberta man is facing charges in connection with a stalking incident in Lethbridge last month, and police are concerned there may be other victims.

The victim, a 47-year-old woman, was walking in the 1000 block of Third Avenue North on the evening of Wednesday, June 25 when the incident occurred.

Police say she noticed a man drive past her in a truck, saying he then circled around and returned, exited the vehicle and attempted to “solicit” her.

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“The female continued walking, and the male became angry when she would not enter his vehicle,” police said in a Thursday news release. “As she proceeded, he resumed following her in his truck.”

Fearing for her safety, the victim went inside a nearby business to ask for help.

Police say the man left the area before they arrived, but he was later located and found to have outstanding warrants.

James Alfred Finch, 51, of Wetaskiwin, is charged with criminal harassment and watching and besetting.

He remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on Aug. 18.

Despite his arrest, Lethbridge police have taken the step of releasing a photo of Finch and his vehicle, a 1999 silver Ford F-150 with a dark topper.

“Police have evidence to believe this was not an isolated incident and there may be additional, unidentified victims,” police said.

Anyone who has been victimized, or has information that could assist investigators, is asked to call police at 403-328-4444.