Rural property crime increasing

Prince George

2022-01-10 12:34 PST

The Prince George RCMP is cautioning those with rural properties to keep an eye on their outbuildings and equipment this winter.

Since October 2021, the Prince George RCMP has seen a 22% increase in rural property crime, particularly in the area north of Chief Lake Road, and is urging those with rural properties to be vigilant this winter. Rural properties can be a tempting target for thieves as the lack of close neighbours, setback houses and tree-lined properties make it easier to commit a crime without attracting attention. Additionally, those homes and properties that get used seasonally means a would-be thief is less likely to be interrupted during the off-season months.

We are asking that those people living in rural settings keep an eye out for one another’s properties and contact police if you see anyone or anything suspicious. If you have a gate at your driveway, consider keeping it closed and locked, even when you are at home, to help deter thieves from entering your driveway. Also, make sure any doors and windows on your outbuildings are securely locked, states Cpl. Jennifer Cooper, Media Relations Officer for the Prince George RCMP.

Some other suggestions from our Community Policing Section are:

• Installing motion sensor lights on your home and outbuildings
• Make sure any trailers/recreational vehicles have hitch locks or wheel locks on them
• Lock-out large pieces of equipment
• Ensure your house number is clearly visible at the end of your driveway, and visible during the day and night, so police can find your residence quickly if needed
• Install a good quality, high-resolution security camera on your home and/or outbuildings

If you have any information about this or any other criminal offence, please contact the Prince George RCMP at (250)561-3300 or anonymously contact Crime Stoppers at 1(800)222-8477 or online at www.northernbccrimestoppers.ca (English only). You do not have to reveal your identity to Crime Stoppers. If you provide information that leads to an arrest or recovery of stolen property, you could be eligible for a cash reward.
 

Released by

Cpl. Jennifer Cooper

Email: pg_media@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

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