Busier times ahead for RCMP after spring weather sticks around

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Case said the longer it takes a criminal to get an item, the larger likelihood they will be caught, so they typically walk away from locked doors and seek an easy target instead. 

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Valuables left inside vehicles and within view are generally easy targets, and Case said it’s unfortunately common for valuables to be stolen from vehicles that are also unlocked. 

“If the valuables are in view, they are a tempting target, and the criminal may break a window to steal the item,” Case explained. “It is not as common as many people think for criminals to break a window and steal something from inside a vehicle. This causes noise and possible detection. But if the item is worthwhile, it may happen.” 

Having a well-lit property is also a deterrent for criminal activity. Case said criminals like to operate in the dark and will avoid lighted areas if possible. With the criminal element preferring darkness to light, Case said most break-ins happen during nighttime hours. Darkness also means fewer people that could catch the criminals in the act. 

Case also recommends video surveillance systems and doorbell cameras if possible. The RCMP initially look for video when investigating matters, and Case said they have been able to catch thieves over the past few months because of video surveillance.  

“[Without it, the likelihood of solving these occurrences would have been low.” 

Video surveillance in the area or street can also be as important as video in the immediate vicinity of the property. Case said video of vehicles or people coming or going from an area can be just as beneficial as video capturing criminals in the act. 

Should you see anyone suspicious enter your yard, the first thing you should do is call the police and let them encounter those people. 

“There are too many unknowns when dealing with suspicious people or criminals,” Case explained. “If suspicious people or criminals [are] coming onto someone else’s property, make them aware that they are being watched. Turn on the lights, make noise, and yell something at them. If they are there for non-legitimate reasons, they will more than likely just leave because they know they have been caught.” 

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cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com