The Bowen Island RCMP are investigating two recent attempted break-and-enters and one break-and-enter which have led them to believe that the culprit(s) have familiarity with the neighbourhoods.
One was on Dorman Road. The owners were away for a few days and the suspect attempted, but failed, to gain access by forcing open a rear door.
No entry was gained during an attempt on Hummingbird Lane, either. Although the property might have appeared vacant, the suspect was scared away from trying to open a lever-operated window when the owner turned the lights on.
In the third incident, the suspect cut through the screen of a window that was left open to gain access to a home on David Road that, once again, appeared vacant. The suspect had rummaged through the master bedroom, opening drawers, but was scared away by resident's dog.
The RCMP says two of these incidents occurred after midnight and access was via the rear of the residence.
Officers would like to remind residents to walk around their homes to assess 'weak points' during the day and in the evening.
Look for objects that might be used for access such as ladders, stumps, and rocks.
People should also assess the visibility of items of value that can be seen from the outside.
"Criminals tend to be opportunistic," Cpl Paulo Arreaga says. "Mainly small items that are left in the open and are quick to grab will be targeted (phones, laptops, money, wallets, purses.) These items should be kept out of plain view. If they are going to be in plain view, consider your surroundings before you leave them unattended. At home or in a vehicle, close and lock windows and doors. Out in the town, don't leave items of value on a table or in a shopping cart for even a few seconds.
"The criminal might be intent in breaking into a house that is left unattended for a long time. If this is the case, consider making it very difficult. Residential alarms, locking doors and windows, having sensor lights installed, communicating with a trusted neighbour to check your home. There are also several inexpensive home security systems that you can install into you home computer that lets you monitor your home remotely."
If anyone has any information, they are encouraged to call Bowen Island RCMP at 604-947-0516.
