When one North Vancouver man watched a suspicious character tugging on several car door handles at 3:30 a.m. in his neighbourhood, he did something about it.
In the early morning hours of Friday, Aug. 8, the witness - a member of the Block Watch program on the 3000-block of Brookridge Drive - called police to report that a man was going around and checking door handles of parked cars until finally entering an unlocked vehicle.
The man provided police with valuable information including a depiction of the suspect, according to a North Vancouver RCMP media release. With the help of the Lower Mainland Integrated Police Dog Service, the suspect was located and arrested nearby.
"Our officers were greatly assisted by the prompt action of a concerned resident," said Cpl. Richard De Jong, North Vancouver RCMP, in the release. "Police continue to encourage citizens to report any suspicious activity in their neighbourhood."
The 42-year-old suspect was known to police and has been charged with theft and breach of a court order. He remained in police custody until his court appearance, according to the release.
Police are taking this opportunity to remind car owners to keep their vehicles locked and remove all valuables from sight.
