Residents of Metchosin donB次元官网网址檛 seem too concerned about a recent uptick in property crime in their area.
Police say Monday night saw numerous incidents of break and enter and theft in the area of La Bonne Road and Jelinek Place, where property owners found unlocked sheds and vehicles ransacked and a number of electronic devices stolen, but according to Const. Alex Berube, the incidents arenB次元官网网址檛 indicative of an upward trend overall. They are, however, dedicating a few more resources to the issue right now, including incorporating their Street Crime Unit into the investigation.
Longtime resident Frank Mitchell said itB次元官网网址檚 not likely anything to worry about, as these spikes in crime are experienced periodically. For a peaceful area like theirs, a couple of instances of crime seems like a lot, he said.
B次元官网网址淭hereB次元官网网址檚 a bit of a random element to it,B次元官网网址� Mitchell said. B次元官网网址淚 would guess that itB次元官网网址檚 just a couple of people (causing the problems), or maybe even just one. I certainly donB次元官网网址檛 get the feeling that itB次元官网网址檚 becoming more dangerous out here, or anything. ItB次元官网网址檚 more like a statistical blip.B次元官网网址�
He added there have been times in the past where they have seen increases, but looking at the trends, he doesnB次元官网网址檛 think Metchosin is any less safe than it has been.
B次元官网网址淚 think itB次元官网网址檚 just a matter of perception. When the media gets a hold of something like this, itB次元官网网址檚 very easy for it to get all blown out of proportion,B次元官网网址� he said, adding that a few incidents arenB次元官网网址檛 likely to shift the dynamic or cause much unease in the community.
The most recent spate of incidents included a homeowner being awoken to find someone in the hallway of his suite. During the subsequent chase, the resident reported, the suspect fired B次元官网网址渁 pellet or Airsoft gun at him.B次元官网网址�
The Saanich Police Department canine unit was brought in to track the suspect(s), but was unsuccessful.
The Island District RCMPB次元官网网址檚 forensic identification section is also assisting with the investigation.
Berube confirmed that in all of the reported incidents, the properties accessed were unlocked and no damage was sustained due to forced entry.
B次元官网网址淭his is again an unfortunate reminder that owners should keep their homes and vehicles locked,B次元官网网址� he said. B次元官网网址淚f presented with an opportunity, criminals will not hesitate to open an unlocked door.B次元官网网址�
Anyone with information in regards to the recent criminal activity or have any other concerns is asked to contact West Shore RCMP at 250-474-2264 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
mdavies@goldstreamgazette.com
