Break and enter charges

The Calgary Police Service has laid charges related to break-ins that occurred earlier this week.

On Monday, June 9, 2014, at approximately 12:15 p.m., the CPS received reports of suspicious activity at a home on Woodbine Boulevard S.W.

When officers arrived, it appeared that the home had been entered through a side window.

The residence was contained, and one man was arrested as he exited through the rear door.

Jeremiah HEAVYRUNNER, 20, of Tsuu T’ina, Alta., was later charged with one count of break and enter in relation to this incident.

Officers learned that another man had also been in the house, but he was not located inside.

A short time later, another break-in occurred at a nearby home and a vehicle was stolen from the garage.

It was believed the suspect was the second man from the earlier incident.

A bulletin was sent to all frontline officers  to look out for the stolen vehicle.

On Tuesday, June 10, 2014, the stolen vehicle was spotted by CPS officers in southeast Calgary.

After various units were put in place, the vehicle was stopped in the area of 3A Street and 40 Avenue N.E., without incident.

One man was arrested by CPS Tactical Unit members.

Upon further investigation, it was alleged the suspect had also committed a break-in at a residence in Hawkwood earlier that morning.

Vut Tha (Vutha) KONG, 27, of Calgary, has been charged with three counts of break and enter, one charge each of breach of recognizance and driving without insurance.

Two weeks ago, the CPS issued a news release about an increase in car prowlings, as well as garage and home break-ins, particularly in south Calgary. A number of prevention tips were given, including to report suspicious activity in your community.

These break-in cases were solved in part because of information from citizens, and we thank the community for their assistance.

Since the alert about an increase in incidents was issued, there has been a 23 per cent decrease in residential break-ins throughout Calgary. Nighttime break-ins have decreased by 21 per cent within the city, and by 47 per cent in south Calgary.

Calgarians are urged to continue taking steps to prevent these incidents from happening.

• Ensure all vehicles are locked, with the windows up.
• Hide or preferably remove all valuables, keys, garage door openers and other property from unattended vehicles.
• Ensure all home and garage doors, patio doors and windows are secured even when you are home, day or night. This includes second-storey windows.
• Develop a routine to make sure the garage doors have been closed and secured after a day of gardening or bike riding. Don’t drive away from your home until you’ve seen the garage door close completely. Check all vehicles, doors and windows before turning in for the night.
• Consider installing home and vehicle alarm systems and vehicle anti-theft devices.
• Let your neighbours know if they’ve left doors open or vehicles unlocked.
• Report any suspicious activity to the Calgary Police Service (403) 266-1234. If you believe a crime is in progress, please call 911.

Case 14211879