Apparently the North Shore is considered such a crime-free zone by residents that they’re making it easy pickings for thieves who have been helping themselves to iPods, phones, and wallets from vehicles without breaking a sweat.
Both the North Vancouver RCMP detachment and West Vancouver Police are reporting a recent rash of thefts from vehicles. Frustrating for police is that in many cases the vehicles were left unlocked with valuables left inside, sometimes in plain sight.
“It’s almost like having a sign saying ‘Steal me,’” said Const. Jeff Wood, spokesman for the West Vancouver police.
Wood said, despite warnings and common sense, “certain residents of West Vancouver continue to advertise their belongings in unlocked cars that are parked in dimly lit areas, thus resulting in a buffet of personal merchandise to steal.”
In the last week alone, 30 thefts from vehicles were reported in West Vancouver, said Wood. Thefts from vehicles are also up in North Vancouver. Items stolen include everything from electronic devices to sunglasses to banking documents.
Wood said thefts have been spread all over the municipality. Many vehicles have been parked on the street outside of owners’ homes or even in their driveways.
Ironically, part of the reason for so many thefts could be that people believe they won’t be targeted in their neighbourhoods, he said. “People believe West Vancouver is a safe community. It is a safe community. We all know that. So do bad guys.”
Wood said thieves take whatever they can grab quickly and easily without making any noise.
His message to residents: don’t leave your wallet or your iPhone on the console overnight and be surprised when it isn’t there in the morning. Remove your valuables and lock your vehicle.
“We’re asking for help,” he said. “We only have so many boots on the ground.”
