100 Mile House RCMP has noticed a rising uptick in incidents of break-and-enters in the South Cariboo.
Sgt. Brian Lamb said that while there has been an increase in such crimes, he noted the current level the community is experiencing is normal for this time of year.
"Having looked at previous stats - break-and-enter stats from last year and years previous, it's about what we normally get called to each year. So I wouldn't say it's an increase over previous years, but definitely an uptick over the last few months, or especially the last few weeks in general." Lamb explained.
Lamb notes there are many factors RCMP consider when investigating these crimes, including whether or not they're being committed by the same people, the location of the crimes and the circumstances surrounding the crime. He said there are many seasonal residents in the South Cariboo whose property or homes are often targeted.
"We do have a fair size of a significant seasonal resident population here. Ever since I have been here, those residents are targeted, perhaps more often than a full-time property just because if nobody's there - then they're obviously going to be an easier target than a full-time resident," Lamb stated.
Community members have been sharing their concerns about the incidents on Facebook including one post complaining about numerous B&E's in the Imperial Ranchettes. One commenter posted a video of two cars stopping in the middle of Highland Crescent late at night.
When asked if this would be considered suspicious behaviour, Lamb said it is something the community should look out for. Unknown vehicles driving slowly through your neighbourhood, especially late at night, could be casing homes to break into. He encourages those who see such vehicles to call the police and report it.
Lamb noted it is also best to report any B&E's that do occur immediately to the RCMP so they have a better chance of catching the perpetrators. He said there have been at least three cases recently where RCMP weren't called immediately to the scene.
"We weren't called until a couple of hours later, or in one case, actually not til the next day," stated Lamb.
While RCMP continues to investigate these incidents, Lamb said the community can take steps to protect themselves from future incidents. The most effective precaution, he said, is getting to know your neighbours better.
"Obviously, if you have neighbours that are being vigilant while you're either away or you have a seasonal property up there, having somebody to come check on the property," stated Lamb about the role they can play protecting private property.
He also recommended people invest in locks and make sure property is secured away from the front of the house.
"I would say that having a good surveillance system is also great evidence for us as well - if we capture an image of a person, of a vehicle, of a license plate, that really helps us in the prosecution as well," stated Lamb.
