String of downtown Vernon break-ins end with arrest of two suspects

Police have two suspects in custody in connection with a rash of break-ins and thefts from businesses in downtown Vernon.

RCMP say an investigation was launched after a citizen walking in the 3000 block of 29 Avenue in downtown Vernon at about 3 a.m. yesterday, Oct. 5, noticed the front door of a downtown business had the glass smashed out of it, and immediately called the police.

“The ensuing investigation, conducted by both frontline and officers from the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP’s Targeted Policing Unit, led to the identification and arrest of two individuals believed to be responsible for the break and enter to this business,” said Const. Chris Terleski, media relations officer in a press release.

"As a result of the arrest, additional evidence was obtained by police linking one of the men to a number break and enters that occurred previously in the city."

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The suspects, who are both from Vernon, remain in custody until their court appearance today, Oct. 6, RCMP said.

They are 32-year old Jordan Andrew Penner, who has been charged with five counts of break and enter, and 30-year old Cody Alan Macdonald, who was charged with one count of break and enter.

“The impact these types of crime have on our local businesses is significant,” Const. Terleski said. “We remain committed to work with out downtown partners to target and disrupt this type of criminal activity in our community.”

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