A 41-year-old woman from Hope is in custody and facing theft charges in connection with three reports of items stolen Tuesday from lockers at the Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre.
Police say the woman admitted breaking into three lockers that day in the women’s change room at the recreation centre, stealing a necklace and a ring from one of the lockers, an iPhone from another, and a purse and car keys from a third.
The victim whose purse and car keys were stolen returned home and was standing on her balcony when she noticed a man and woman outside acting suspicously.
The suspect couple called a taxi and left, apparently spooked by the sight of the victim standing on her balcony.
Two members of the RCMP Crime Reduction Unit located her vehicle, then viewed surveillance video at the recreation centre and identified the suspect, who is known to police.
The CRU members then went to a residence frequented by the suspect, and located a stolen purse and insurance registration papers for the stolen vehicle.
Police said the suspect also showed the CRU members where the stolen car keys were located. They were recovered and returned to the victim.
The stolen ring, an engagement ring from a deceased husband, was also returned.
“The woman who had her ring stolen was absolutely thrilled to get it back as she had it for over 60 years,” said RCMP Cpl. Kerry Williams, a CRU member.
The male seen with the accused woman is still being sought by police.
Cpl. Tammy Hollingsworth encouraged victims of theft, no matter how small, to report them to police.
“In this case, due to the victims reporting the thefts, the outcome was successful as property was returned to rightful owners and the woman responsible for the crimes will be held accountable,” she said.
