RCMP ride UTVs and respond to crime spikes

OSOYOOS — RCMP have responded to a spike in thefts from vehicles in the Osoyoos area over the last couple of weeks.

While many of the vehicles were unlocked, RCMP are reminded people to make sure their cars are locked and no valuables are in sight.

And as some people are stealing from cars, others are pulling hit and runs.

Last Thursday, an 18-year-old cyclist was struck by a man driving a 1996 Jeep Cherokee. The driver was arrested the next day. RCMP say the cyclist suffered serious but not life-threatening injuries. RCMP believe alcohol played a big role in the collision and are recommending additional charges be made.

Alcohol was a major factor in another incident over the weekend.

RCMP say they pulled over a Porche on Main Street and the driver appeared intoxicated. He failed two breathalizer tests. As a result, his car was impounded for 30 days and his license has been suspended for 90 days.

Meanwhile, the RCMP have bought a Utility Terrain Vehicle patrol the remote areas along the Canada-US border and the beaches in the summer. Officers were trained on how to use the new UTV last week.

If anyone has information on crimes please call the Osoyoos RCMP at 250-495-7236 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

To contact the reporter for this story, email Meaghan Archer at marcher@infotelnews.ca or call 250-488-3065. To contact the editor, email mjones@infotelnews.ca or call 250-718-2724.