A convicted sex offender is the subject of a Canada-wide warrant after failing to return to a Vancouver halfway house on New Year's Eve, according to police.
Details of the Disappearance
Dean Robert Merrick, 58, left a correctional halfway house in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside shortly before 9:30 a.m. on December 31, 2025. He was authorized to attend an appointment on Commercial Drive but did not return as required, prompting Vancouver police to issue a public alert.
Who is Dean Robert Merrick?
Merrick is serving an 18-year sentence for sexual offences. He had been residing at the community-based facility under a long-term supervision order following a release from jail. Authorities consider him a risk to public safety.
Vancouver police have released a detailed physical description to aid in his capture:
- Height: 6-foot-2
- Weight: Approximately 200 pounds
- Appearance: Bald with brown, greying hair on the sides and blue eyes.
He was last seen potentially wearing a black jacket over a white t-shirt, green cargo pants, a black baseball cap, and grey and black running shoes. Merrick has distinctive tattoos, including a flag and a cowboy on his left arm.
Public Urged to Assist
Law enforcement is conducting an extensive search and is appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone who sees Dean Robert Merrick or has information on his whereabouts is instructed to call 9-1-1 immediately and not to approach him.
The nationwide warrant underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating his disappearance from supervised custody. The investigation is ongoing.
