Arrest warrant issued for B.C. father missing with daughter

Police in B.C. say an arrest warrant has been issued for a Vancouver Island man who was reported missing with his daughter on Jan. 24 after he failed to hand her over to her mother under a joint custody agreement.

Now, roughly two months later, an arrest warrant has been issued for Bennett for abduction in contravention of a custody order.

Police had previously told CTV News that the investigation was only a missing person case because the RCMP had not determined that seven-year-old Violet Bennett was in any danger.

Now, however, police say they've gathered "sufficient evidence" to recommend a criminal charge against Bennett, with the warrant being issued Tuesday.

Police say they continue to be in contact with Bennett's family and are hoping to confirm Violet's well-being.

Investigators say the pair could be "anywhere in Canada at this point" and are asking anyone who sees them to contact their local police or North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP at 250-748-5522 immediately.

Jesse Bennett is described as a 36-year-old white man who stands 5'10" and weighs roughly 160 pounds. He has blue eyes, a brown beard, and brown hair – though police say his hair may be shaved or he may be wearing a hat. He also has a tattoo on his upper right arm.

A photo showing Jesse Bennett's tattoo on his right arm. (North Cowichan/Duncan RMCP)

Violet Bennett is described as a white girl who stands 4' tall and weighs 50 to 60 pounds. She has blue eyes and curly hair.