Through an extensive and coordinated review of multiple incidents that occurred over a two-week period in early October in southwest, northwest and northeast divisions, EPS has linked some or all of 18 break and enter and vehicle theft-related investigations to four associated individuals.
Investigators have arrested and charged these individuals – two male adults and two youths - who are now facing a total of 143 charges.
Investigators believe the four accused were involved in breaking into vehicles in residential neighbourhoods across the city. Once inside the vehicle, the accused would locate a remote garage door opener left in the vehicle to access the contents of garages and homes. In some of the incidents, the accused would allegedly steal a secondary vehicle found at the residence, using keys found in the home to further continue their cycle of break and enters across the city.
“In some of these instances, the complainants also left the connecting pedestrian door from the garage to the residence unlocked, providing ample opportunity for the suspects to access to their homes and their valuables, while they slept,” said Acting Det. Trevor McKendrick, of EPS Northwest Division.
“It’s important that we all take steps to do the little things to protect ourselves from those who will take advantage of an easy opportunity like this.”
Kristopher Prasad, 19, is facing 63 charges related to break and enter, theft fromvehicle, theft of vehicle, possession of stolen property, possession of an offensive weapon, assault with a weapon and numerous breach conditions.
Benjamin Pittman, 18, is facing 48 charges related to break and enter, theft from vehicle, theft of vehicle and possession of stolen property.
The first youth is facing a total of 24 charges relating to break and enter, theft, possession of stolen property and possession of a weapon. The second youth is facing eight charges related to break and enter, theft and numerous breaches.
Neither individual can be named under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
Multiple police resources from three divisions brought a crime spree that impacted residents across the city to an abrupt conclusion Monday with the arrest of four individuals.