Man charged after allegedly groping 3-year-old at BC store

Charges have been laid against a man accused of inappropriately touching a child at a store in Surrey.

The RCMP was called to the business in the 12400 block of 88 Avenue in Surrey around 8:30 pm on Sunday after receiving a report that a man had groped a three-year-old child.

According to police, the child’s father and other bystanders kept the suspect, 24-year-old Adam Alexander Newbigging, at the scene until officers arrived.

When officers did get to the store, they spoke with witnesses, reviewed CCTV footage and arrested Newbigging without incident.

He was initially released with a court date as the investigation continued, but the 24-year-old has now been charged with sexual assault and sexual interference on Wednesday.

A warrant was issued for his arrest and he was brought into custody on Thursday.

“The nature of this incident and the fact it involved a young child in a public place is very concerning,” said Cpl. Vanessa Munn.

“This incident had an emotional impact on all parties involved and we have taken steps to ensure appropriate referrals have been made so that everyone gets the support they need.”

Newbigging remains in custody as he awaits his first court appearance.