SE OPP Investigate Break & Enters to Seasonal Properties

The Superior East Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is warning residents about a recent rise in break and enter occurrences to seasonal properties. Since November 1, 2021, Superior East OPP has responded to 13 break and enters in the area, six at unoccupied residences.

Police are reminding people that locking doors and windows is important, but not always enough. Most of the recent break and enters involved locks being cut or pried open. Police are also emphasizing the importance of security cameras, like game or trail cameras, which are battery powered and motion activated. Cameras are valuable tools that can help police investigate property crimes. Of the six seasonal properties broken into, only one had security cameras, which lead to the recovery of several stolen items.

More ways to protect your property:

• Install motion lights or leave exterior lights on to illuminate entryways and backyards.
• Leave a duplicate key with a friend or neighbour instead of hiding it outside.
• Record or take photos of the serial numbers of your tools, electronics, etc.
• Keep objects like axes and hammers secured so they can’t be used to assist in breaking into your residence.
• Rely on friends and neighbours. Check on each other’s properties when away.
• Make sure your residence looks occupied. Use light timers, have driveways/walkways shovelled and the grass cut.
• Make note of suspicious behaviour near your residence or your neighbour’s.
• Never post on social media that you are away.

 

The OPP has a community-based crime prevention program designed to reduce break and enters, increase support to victims of crime, reduce re-victimization, and empower citizens to take an active role in helping prevent crimes. Learn more by visiting www.opp.ca and reading about the SafeGuard Ontario Property Security Program.

If you discover a break and enter, contact police immediately. Do not enter the property, as valuable evidence may be disturbed.

If you have information about any break and enters, please contact the OPP at . If you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at (8477) or visit www.ontariocrimestoppers.com. You may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2000.00 if an arrest is made. 1-800-222-TIPS 1-888-310-1122

Remember: Don’t be an easy victim of property crime.