Mounties receive 28 complaints of thefts from vehicles in 13 days

VERNON – The city is breaking out in a rash of thefts from vehicles and Mounties are reminding the public they play a vital roll in curing the problem.

Since February 1, 28 reports of thefts from vehicles have been reported to Vernon RCMP and all but one happened within city limits. But it's not a particular street or neighbourhood affected by the crime wave. Rather, the breakout is happening all over.

"Our officers responding to the investigations are finding that vehicle owners are leaving their vehicles unlocked with items that attract thieves left in view," RCMP spokesperson Gord Molendyk said. "The police are asking owners to be more diligent in not leaving items in plain view and lock up your vehicles."

Any suspicious activity can be reported to Vernon RCMP, such as early morning visitors to the neighbourhood by someone you don't recognize, walking or on a bike, if they appear to be checking vehicles.

To contact the reporter for this story, email Charlotte Helston at chelston@infotelnews.ca, call 250-309-5230 or tweet @charhelston.