A spike in residential break and enters in the Aldergrove area is keeping Langley RCMP busy.
A dozen homes and one detached garage were hit by thieves during the daytime hours between June 27 and July 3. Many of these properties are larger lots, located in rural areas with few neighbours.
In four of these incidents, entry was gained into residences by kicking in the door. In others, the thieves got in through open or unlocked windows and patio doors.
Several of the homes were ransacked, and many items, mainly electronics, were stolen.
TVs, both flat screen and older models, laptops, iPods, video cameras and gaming systems were taken.
The thieves also stole several pieces of fine and costume jewelry, a mountain bike, a snowboard, coins and cigarettes.
Police said that all of these B&Es occurred during the day, while residents were out of the home.
Members of the RCMP’s Lower Mainland Integrated Forensic Identification Section (Ident) were called in to assist general duty members with gathering evidence from these scenes.
Langley RCMP media relations spokesperson Const. Jillian Roberts suggested a number of precautions residents can take to prevent break-ins while they are out:
• Lock all doors and windows every time you leave, even if you are stepping out just for a few minutes;
• Use a deadbolt with a striker plate using 3” screws into framing;
• Lock horizontal sliding windows and doors with a rod or dowelling;
• Leave the radio on;
• Secure glass or patio doors with anti-lift devices to prevent doors from being lifted off their tracks;
• Improve visibility by trimming back tall hedges that block windows visible by neighbours or the street;
• Mark belongings for identification and record serial numbers of electronics;
• Keep valuables in a safe or safety deposit box;
• Install an alarm system and have it monitored locally, not abroad;
• Secure window air conditioner or fans to prevent removal and easy access, and
• Install motion lights.
If you return home and find signs of forced entry, do not go inside. Call police from a neighbour’s phone or a cellphone. Do not touch anything to prevent loss of possible evidence.
If you have security concerns for your property or are unsure if your residence is effectively prepared, a home security check can be booked through Block Watch. Call 604-532-3213. Concerned residents are also invited to join Block Watch.
Anyone with information that might help identify the suspect or suspects involved with the break-ins is asked to call the Langley detachment at 604-532-3200 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.