Vehicle thefts down, stats show

Thefts from vehicles dropped by nearly a third over the latter of June, but this is no time for complacency, police are warning.

From June 16 to 29, there were 51 reports of such incidents in the city, compared to 75 over the two weeks prior, RCMP said Friday.

But Mounties are expecting the count to rise once again because people known to commit these crimes will soon be released.

“Every week many property offenders are arrested, others are convicted, while others complete their sentence and are released from custody,” said Prince George RCMP Cpl. Craig Douglass. “There is never a good time to leave items in your vehicles and never a good time to leave your vehicle doors unlocked.”

Items stolen include electronic devices, loose change, wallets, purses, drivers licences, sunglasses, gift cards, clothing and tools. In a recent case, the door to one vehicle was pried open to steal loose change in the ash tray, RCMP said.

Police also encourage the public to report suspicious persons, vehicles and activities when they see it. A delay in reporting can often decrease the chance of an arrest and possible conviction.

Prince George RCMP can be reached at 250-561-3300 or anonymously contact Crime Stoppers at 1(800)222-8477 or online at www.pgcrimestoppers.bc.ca (English only).

You do not have to reveal your identity to Crime Stoppers. If you provide information that leads to an arrest or recovery of stolen property, you could be eligible for a cash reward.

For tips on theft prevention, go to the safety tips section of the detachment’s website at www.princegeorge.rcmp.ca.