A spike in residential break and enters in the Aldergrove area last week has kept Langley RCMP busy.
Twelve family residences and one detached garage were hit by thieves during the daytime hours between June 27 and July 3. Many of these properties are larger lots, located in rural areas with few neighbours.
In four of these incidents, entry was gained into residences by kicking in the door. Entry was gained through open or unlocked windows and patio doors in the others.
The suspects took numerous items and ransacked many of the residences. The thieves were mainly focused on electronics: TVs, both flat screen and older models, laptops, ipods, video cameras and gaming systems. Also stolen were several pieces of fine and costume jewelry, a mountain bike, snowboard, coins and cigarettes.
All of these break and enters took place during daytime hours while residents were out of the home, possibly at work or out enjoying the long weekend.
Members of the RCMP's Lower Mainland Integrated Forensic Identification Section (Ident) were called in to assist general duty members with gathering evidence from these scenes.
Langley RCMP media relations spokesperson Cst. Jillian Roberts issued the following advice to homeowners.
Avoid becoming a target of these thieves by taking simple precautions when leaving your residence unoccupied:
• Lock all doors and windows every time you leave, even if you are stepping out just for a few minutes.
• Use a deadbolt with a striker plate using 3” screws into framing
• Lock horizontal sliding windows and doors with a rod or dowelling
• Leave the radio on
• Secure glass or patio doors with anti-lift devices to prevent door from being lifted off its track
• Improve visibility by trimming back tall hedges that block windows visible by neighbours or the street
• Mark your belongings for identification and record serial numbers of electronics
• Keep valuables in a safe or safety deposit box
• Install an alarm system and have it monitored locally, not abroad
• Secure window air conditioner or fans to prevent removal and easy access
• Install motion lights
If you do return home and find signs of forced entry, do not go inside. Call police from a neighbour’s phone or cell phone. Do not touch anything to prevent loss of possible evidence.
If you are have security concerns for your property or are unsure if your residence is effectively prepared, a home security check can be booked or join Block Watch – a watchful neighbourhood is your best burglar alarm. To book a home security check or to find out how to become part of the Block Watch Team, contact the Langley RCMP Blockwatch coordinator at 604-532-3213.
Police are asking anyone with information that might assist to identify the suspect or suspects involved with these break and enters to please call Langley RCMP at 604-532-3200.
Should you need to remain anonymous, please call Crimestoppers.
There are four ways to leave an "anonymous tip" with Crime Stoppers.
Talk: 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)
Type: www.solvecrime.ca
Text: BCTIP and your message to CRIMES (274637)
Facebook: www.facebook.com/metrovancouvercrimestoppers