Penticton RCMP arrest one in Apex crime spree

PENTICTON – Residents at Apex were victimized by a recent crime spree.

RCMP Cpl. Don Wrigglesworth reports several thefts have taken place in the resort community over the past few days.

A vehicle was broken into in the 1200 block of Apex Mountain Road on Feb. 28 where spare change and a $300 pair of sunglasses were reported stolen.

Also on Feb. 28, a report of a theft from a vehicle on Clearview Crescent was reported. An unlocked vehicle had been entered and two wallets taken, with the credit cards being used later at local businesses in Penticton.

The incidents are under investigation, with a review of surveillance video pending.

Later in the afternoon on Feb. 28, a vehicle parked in the 1200 block of Apex Mountain Road was broken into and spare keys, insurance papers and change were reported missing. 

The vehicle had been left unlocked.

Yesterday, March 1, police attended a residence on The Circle, where they discovered the front door had been kicked in.

The owner of the seasonal residence was out of town and the matter continues to be investigated.

A grey Silverado pickup truck reported in one of the Feb. 28 vehicle break ins was reported stolen on March 1.

Members of the Penticton Targeted Enforcement Unit later located the pickup as it exited the Sun Leisure Mobile Home Park at 3999 Skaha Lake Road.

The vehicle took off at a high rate of speed, but was eventually pulled over without incident, on the Penticton Indian Reserve near the band hall.

Police discovered the truck’s plates belonged to a Brandon Avenue address. Identification was also recovered in the truck that had been stolen from a vehicle parked on Clearview Crescent.

The  50-year-old man driving the truck is expected to make an appearance in Penticton court later today, facing charges of theft, possession of stolen property and dangerous driving.

An unlocked vehicle door on The Circle made it easier for thieves to rummage through it sometime overnight March 1.

Police attending the scene noticed damage to the adjacent residence’s front door. The owner was contacted and it was later determined a Keurig coffee maker and Bose speaker was missing.

A break and enter was also reported at a residence in the 1400 block of Apex Mountain Road.

The residence appeared to have been ransacked and a television and stereo were reported missing. With the owner out of the country, police are continuing their investigations.

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