The Cat in the Hat? Police want to know about that

Sep 8, 2026 | 4:33 PM

Even if it was just a prank, West Kelowna Mounties are taking a recent matter very seriously.

They’re investigating a report involving a teenage girl who was reportedly chased on Aug. 24 while walking in the community by an unknown person dressed in a costume resembling the Cat in the Hat.

The youth was able to reach her residence safely, and police have released an image in hopes it will help them identify the individual in the costume.

Photo of suspect dressed up in costume of Cat in the Hat (Image Credit: RCMP)

In a statement, RCMP said that while wearing a costume is not, in itself, a criminal offence, following or pursuing another person in a manner that causes them to reasonably fear for their safety may constitute criminal harassment, depending on the circumstances and evidence gathered during the investigation. Other potential offences, including assault, uttering threats or intimidation, may also be considered where the evidence supports them.

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“Regardless of whether the individual intended the behaviour as a joke, following a young person and causing them to fear for their safety is extremely concerning,” Cpl. Devon Gerrits of the West Kelowna RCMP said. “People should understand that behaviour intended as a prank can have serious consequences when it causes another person to reasonably fear for their safety.”

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by Vernon Matters staff

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