Prince George RCMP are alarmed by the soaring numbers of theft from vehicles during past two months.
Police have received more than 150 reports of theft from vehicles in the Prince George area during September and October. They are warning the public that thefts are occurring because people continue to leave visible electronics, money and other valuables in their vehicles.
"After reviewing a number of theft-from-vehicle investigations it's apparent that vehicle owners are not taking measures to ensure their vehicles are safely locked and all their property has been removed from the vehicle," said Cst. Lesley Smith, RCMP Media Liaison.
"The top five items being taken from vehicles include lap top computers, cell phones and iPhones, money, wallet and purses, and tools."
RCMP believe vehicles are being targeted by a certain group of suspects who may be on foot or riding bikes.
"These suspects are working together with one being the 'look out' while another enters the vehicle and takes the property. The suspects are also causing a lot of damage as a number of vehicles have had the rear window smashed in order to gain entry," Smith said.
Smashed car windows are costing vehicle owners a minimum of $300 deductible.
The thefts are occurring both day and night not only in residential areas, but also in parking lots and along high traffic corridors.
"The stolen property is being traded or sold for drugs and we know this property is either being taken to a crack house, sold on the street or held in a basement for future sales and dissemination," said Smith.
She advises vehicle owners to remove all valuables and property from vehicles; lock the doors and close the windows; park in well-lit areas; be aware of your surroundings and report suspicious activity, people or vehicles to the police.
