If they can’t see it, thieves probably won’t steal it

KAMLOOPS – Kamloops Mounties want you to take responsibility and action to prevent valuables inside from being stolen, as theft from vehicles appears to be spiking.

RCMP Cpl. Cheryl Bush says police are seeing daily reports of thefts from vehicles—purses, wallets, laptops, GPS units, cell phones, golf clubs, tools, briefcases, and gym bags.

"These are preventable crimes," she says. "Many of these reports indicate that the items were taken from unlocked vehicles."

That appears to be a harm reduction method for theft: prevents the repair bill of a broken window or damaged lock. But that kind of strategy requires another step. 

"We cannot predict whether a thief will break a window or damage a lock, or only open unlocked doors," Bush says. "But if there is no lure there in the first place, they will likely just move on."

She advises residents to advise out of town guests to clear their vehicles and notes these thefts are not specific to any one area.

If you observe suspicious activity in your neighborhood, call Kamloops RCMP (250)828-3000 or Crime Stoppers to remain anonymous.