The Regina Police Service is reminding residents that, even though Crime Prevention Week (May 16-21) is now over, they should continue to practice good crime prevention strategies for their own personal safety and security of their property.
The crime rate in Regina has been declining, but there are still challenges for police and the community. One such category is Theft from Auto. In many cases, this crime is entirely preventable; all it takes is for the vehicle owner to remove valuables from the car – before someone else does! In Regina, since May 16th, there have been 98 incidents of Theft from Auto. There is no area of the city that is immune from this type of crime. The geographic breakdown of incidents from May 16-30 is as follows: North District: NE – 14, NW – 16, W – 8; South District: S – 6, SW – 5, SE – 21, E – 6; Central District: NC – 10, SC – 8 (plus four incidents with unknown location) Police investigation and victims’ statements reveal that almost half of these thefts involve valuables left in plain sight in vehicles that are left unlocked. Items taken have included computers, phones, other electronic devices, sunglasses, CD’s, cash and clothing.
The Regina Police Service encourages every vehicle owner to develop and adopt a routine when leaving one’s car or truck. Take a moment to look at the interior of the vehicle the way a criminal might view it; even a handful of change may tempt a culprit to break a car window. Leaving more-valuable possessions in plain view is almost an invitation, especially if the vehicle is unlocked. Remove all valuables; secure the vehicle and save yourself the expense, inconvenience and fear that come with being a victim of crime.
Finally, be a good observer and listener. If you see or hear something unusual, keep yourself safe but take a moment to check. If you see suspicious activity, call police at 777-6500. If you see a crime in progress, call 9-1-1. Together, we can make our community even safer.
