Greenspace homeowners warned of break and enters in west Calgary

Investigators have identified eight residential break and enters in the last week that appear to be targeting homes that back onto greenspaces, ravines, parks and golf courses in southwest and northwest Calgary.

Investigators believe the homes are being targeted during evening hours later in the week or on the weekend. The homes are unoccupied and entrance is generally gained by breaking through back doors or windows. Once inside, high-value items such as jewellery, watches, purses sunglasses and cash are stolen.  

While the investigation into these matters is ongoing and officers are working to identify and locate suspects in these cases, we wanted to alert homeowners and provide information on prevention.

Crime prevention tips for homeowners

·       Lock up high-value items. If using a safe, make sure it is bolted to the floor.

·       Ensure to lower blinds/shades over windows during nighttime hours to reduce visibility into your home.

·       Consider investing in privacy lamination on windows.

·       Invest in a home security system, including cameras.

o   Cover points of entry into your home.

o   Cover inside areas so you can monitor activity that may happen if someone gains entry to your home.

o   Ensure cameras are minimum 1080P resolution.

·       Increase lighting around the outside of a home to minimize dark areas people can hide in.

·       Get to know your neighbours and inform them if you’ll be away for an extended period of time.

Additional crime prevention tips for homeowners are available on calgarypolice.ca, including information on the 9 p.m. Routine that is available in multiple languages.

Report

Know your neighbourhood and report any suspicious activity to police, such as anyone who may appear to be casing homes, by calling the non-emergency number 403-266-1234. Provide as much detail as possible:

·       Vehicles – license plate, colour, make, model, year, unique features such as stickers or damage.

·       People – physical descriptions, clothing and footwear.

 If you experience a residential break and enter, or an attempted one, please call 9-1-1.

Anyone with information about these cases is asked to contact police by calling 403-266-1234. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers through any of the following methods:

TALK: 1-800-222-8477
TYPE: www.calgarycrimestoppers.org
APP: P3 Tips

Case # CA24445107/5540