Thefts from vehicles remain at high levels throughout Nanaimo, despite the pandemic sending numbers in the right direction. (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

PROLIFIC OFFENDERS

Unlocked vehicles providing easy pickings for local thieves

Nov 7, 2021 | 8:56 AM

NANAIMO — Local Mounties are continuing their efforts to catch thieves in the act.

Cases involving theft from vehicles are projected to reach upwards of 1,300 in Nanaimo this year, still too high but well down from the 2,700 in 2019.

Cst. Gary O’Brien told NanaimoNewsNOW lockdowns and other changes in society as a result of the pandemic have helped, but it’s still an issue officers deal with far too often.

“What’s happening now is people are getting in the habit of having food delivered to their homes so again cars aren’t being left in parking lots or downtown areas and criminals aren’t having their way with them.”

Police say they’re focusing on prolific offenders, with a handful of people responsible for a majority of the incidents.

serious crash

Drivers & young child escape significant injury in high-speed crash near Parksville

1h ago

drone push

'It could be the difference between life and death:' Arrowsmith SAR wants new drone

5h ago

mixed bag

Snowy start to February made for a chilly month in Nanaimo

19h ago

O’Brien said criminals like the specialize and if police can catch a few in the act, it makes a noticeable difference in the calls for service.

“If we can arrest two of these people, you’re going to see a signficant decrease because they’re going to be off the streets and the cars are not going to be broken into.”

He added there is a certain “ebb and flow” with thieves, who in many cases resume their activities after leaving jail or moving elsewhere.

Nanaimo RCMP have responded to dozens of calls around Nanaimo this year after thieves stole items from inside cars, focused in central areas and the downtown. (Google Maps)

Of the roughly 100 calls for service RCMP receive about theft from vehicles every month in Nanaimo, around 60 per cent involve vehicles which were unlocked.

“There’s nothing we can do about that, that’s a crime of opportunity. If people can make a conscious effort to lock their vehicles, you’re going to see a significant decrease in thefts.”

Police recommend when you do park in public spaces to do so where there is ample lighting whenever possible, remove all valuables from your car and always make sure vehicles are locked before you go to bed for the night.

Join the conversation. Submit your letter to NanaimoNewsNOW and be included on The Water Cooler, our letters to the editor feature.

info@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @NanaimoNewsNOW