Williams Lake RCMP are urging the public not to leave valuables in their vehicles because the number of thefts from vehicles has spiked by 98 per cent since this time last year. Monica Lamb-Yorski photo

Williams Lake RCMP are urging the public not to leave valuables in their vehicles because the number of thefts from vehicles has spiked by 98 per cent since this time last year. Monica Lamb-Yorski photo

Theft from vehicles spike in Williams Lake

RCMP urging residents to lock their vehicles and not leave valuables inside their vehicles

Reports of theft from vehicles has spiked by 98 per cent in Williams Lake, the RCMP said Friday.

Urging the public to lock vehicle doors and not leave any valuables in their vehicles, the RCMP said it is a simple reminder, yet they continue to respond to calls in the community when residents leave their doors unlocked with valuables visible inside.

So far this year the Williams Lake RCMP have received 125 reports of thefts from vehicles, which is up 98 per cent from the number of calls received at this time in 2017.

“In most cases theft is a crime of opportunity,” said Insp. Jeff Pelley of the Williams Lake RCMP. “Don’t become a victim, remove valuables, lock your doors and report suspicious activity to police.”

Read more: Williams Lake RCMP inspector reminds the public of telephone scams

Some tips to curb property crime include:

Do not leave any property in your vehicle

Use an anti-theft device

Park in open, visible areas

Light your driveway at night

Record the serial numbers of all items of value.

“Police are committed to targeting multiple property offenders, responsible for thefts and the locations in which offences occur,” Pelley said. “Please ensure any suspicious activity is reported.”

Read more: Williams Lake RCMP connect with good Samaritan

If you have any information about property related crime in our community, please contact the Williams Lake RCMP at 250-392-6211 or anonymously contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.


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