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Vernon officer makes major arrest

Alleged child luring suspect wanted in US found in Vernon
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Alberta’s Robert Andronyk, 70, wanted on alleged child luring, was arrested in Vernon April 29. (Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office) Rober Andronyk

A Vernon officer’s diligence to a regular daily duty yielded the apprehension of a fugitive with outstanding warrants from the U.S. and Interpol for a child luring charge.

An officer with the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP observed a truck displaying an Alberta license plate with travel trailer on Apr 29 at approximately 2:30 p.m., parked on 43rd Avenue near 28th Street blocking a lane of travel.

“As the vehicle obstructed the flow of traffic, the officer conducted an inquiry with the driver,” said Cpl. Dan Moskaluk.

The male driver failed to produce identification but provided a name, however the police information systems check indicated that the name was actually that of a deceased individual.

“The driver was then arrested for obstruction and eventually identified himself as 70-year-old Robert Andronyk.”

Further checks of Andronyk determined he was bound by a Recognizance of Bail for a charge of child luring and was on conditions to remain in Edmonton, to carry a copy of his conditions on him and not to possess any electronic documents.

The officer also learned that Andronyk was also a missing person out of Strathcona, Alta., and wanted in the U.S. for a child luring matter via a U.S. and Interpol warrant.

“Andronyk was arrested without incident and transported to Vernon Detachment and lodged in cells,” said Moskaluk.

Since the arrest, the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP consulted with Senior Counsel, Department of Justice (DOJ) International Assistance Group. It has been determined that DOJ was in communication with US counterparts and it is expected that Andronyk will be extradited within days.

Andronyk was subsequently remanded into custody in order to be secured while the extradition process begins.