Richmond distraction thief who posed as utility worker sentenced to 54 months

A man who posed as a utility worker to get inside an elderly woman's home in Richmond, B.C., and steal her purse has been sentenced to 54 months in custody, according to the Richmond RCMP.

Police said Donald Quinnell was sentenced on October 14, 2026, after being charged and convicted of offences including break and enter and fraud. The convictions followed the Richmond RCMP investigation and related investigations in other jurisdictions.

How the theft happened

On December 27, 2025, Richmond RCMP responded to a report of a theft involving an elderly woman. Police said she had answered her door to a man who claimed to be a utility worker.

According to police, the man got into the home by saying he needed to do an inspection, then went into the woman's bedroom. Shortly after he left, it was discovered that her purse had been stolen.

Police agencies worked together

Investigators obtained surveillance footage of the man and worked with police partners across the Lower Mainland, the RCMP said. As the investigation moved forward, officers noticed similarities between this case and other theft and fraud investigations in the region. Through the work of several police agencies, the man was identified as Quinnell.

"This sentence reflects the serious impact these crimes have on vulnerable members of our community," said Inspector Vaz Kassam of the Richmond RCMP.

Kassam added that the investigation showed "the strong partnerships between police agencies across British Columbia and their shared commitment to holding repeat offenders accountable."

Advice for residents

Richmond RCMP is reminding residents to stay alert when people they do not know ask to come into their homes. Police advise that:

• If someone says they represent a utility company or service provider, ask for identification.
• Verify the person's credentials independently before letting them in.

Media inquiries can be directed to Corporal Melissa Lui, Richmond RCMP media relations officer, at 604-207-5189 or [email protected].