The Port Hardy RCMP have received an increase in calls from local citizens who have been victimized by thieves breaking into their vehicles. Investigations have been initiated, and local officers are working to identify a suspect. Investigators have identified some commonalities in the thefts, one of them being unlocked vehicle doors.
In a total of nine vehicles broken into, the doors were left unlocked by the owner and money along with electronic devices and other personal items were taken.
This is contrary to the very basic crime prevention precept of always locking your doors as the first line of defense against theft.
Thieves for the most part skip over vehicles that are difficult to enter, unless of course the bounty inside is too tempting.
Often police hear from residents that “they’ll get in when they want to get in, so I might as well save my windows,” however police strongly discourage this line of thinking.
“Locking your doors isn’t difficult, nor is it costly. When you leave your vehicle doors open you are extending a personal invitation for someone to enter your vehicle and take your personal belongings,” says Staff Sgt. Gord Brownridge.
Report crime or suspicious activity anytime to the local detachment at 250-949-6335, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS.