RCMP in Lake Country wish to urge residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to police following an increase in break in’s to homes under construction.
On May 6, 2016 the Lake Country RCMP received three separate reports of break and enter and thefts from homes under construction. Police have learned that the thieves targeted a new home in the 9100 block of Heritage Drive where all the homes new kitchen appliances were stolen from inside the residence. The suspect or suspects are believed to have also forced entry into a second home in the 8500 block of Heritage Court where more new kitchen appliances were taken.
Thieves also forcibly gained entry into a home under construction in the 1500 block of Marble Ledge Drive where over a $1,000 worth of tools were stolen.
RCMP in Lake Country have noticed an increase in break and enters reported to police in 2016. During the period of January 1st thru May 19th 2016 RCMP have seen 31 reported break and enters, compared to 17 reported incidents during the same period of time in 2015, and 23 incident during the same period in 2014.
In some of these most recent cases area residents reported to police after the incident, during neighbourhood canvassing, that they heard unusual noises in the middle of the night.
“Lake Country RCMP are continuing to investigate these crimes, however are asking the public to be extra vigilant,” says Cst. Jesse O’Donaghey.
“The RCMP are urging the public to report any and all suspicious activities in and around construction sites, especially activities seemingly taking place after usual operating hours or overnight in relation to homes under construction and nearing completion,” adds O’Donaghey.
The RCMP would also like to recommend that contractors be mindful of the increase of offences targeting homes under construction and take appropriate steps to prevent loss.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Lake Country RCMP at 250-766-2288. Remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, leaving a tip online at www.crimestoppers.net or by texting your tip to CRIMES (274637) ktown.