In April 2016, 91 theft from vehicle occurrences have been reported to Downtown Division, a 111% increase from 43 occurrences reported in April 2015.
Downtown Division officers have responded to 344 reports of items stolen from vehicles this year. The EPS has identified three areas where the majority of the incidents occurred:
- 100 Avenue, 101-105 Street
- 108 Avenue, 111-117 Street
- 112-116 Street, between Jasper Avenue and 103 Avenue
“These are often crimes of opportunity – vehicles left unlocked and valuables left in plain sight,” says Const. Dexx Williams. “To help protect your property, remove all items from the vehicle every time it is left unattended. We continue to see laptops, gym bags, cell phones, sunglasses and loose change left behind and then targeted.”
Prevent theft from your vehicle with the following tips:
- Always turn off and lock your vehicle.
- Remove all valuables. Never leave anything in plain sight when you leave your vehicle.
- Remove all portable accessories, including stereo faceplates and GPS equipment.
- Using a steering wheel lock and/or alarm can deter theft of and from vehicles.
- Park in a well-lit, open place.
Anyone who has information about these crimes is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm. Theft from vehicle incidents can also be reported through EPS Online Crime Reporting.