A Chilliwack man faces criminal charges after being arrested by police for allegedly breaking into parked vehicles.
John Evan Wear, 34, remains in custody facing one Criminal Code charge of mischief under $5,000. Wear is scheduled to appear in court in early April.
Chilliwack RCMP began investigating after receiving a report of a male breaking into vehicles parked in the 9400 block of College Street, around 2 a.m. March 12, 2016. A patrolling General Duty officer- who immediately arrived at the address - was quickly supported by the Lower Mainland Integrated Police Dog Section. Police combed the area for the man.
As officers looked for the suspect, a witness called the RCMP Operational Communications Center to report the man they were searching for was in the 9400 block of Cook Street. Police were promptly directed to that address by their dispatchers, and officers quickly took Wear into custody.
“Alert residents reporting suspicious activity, and proactive policing were the key in this instance to the quick arrest and charges," said Cpl. Mike Rail.
"It takes neighbourhoods and the police working together to reduce crime and keep our community safe."
Some prevention tips to protect the property in your vehicle from being stolen:
· Always lock the doors when leaving your vehicle.
· Ensure valuables are out of sight if left in your vehicle during the day.
· Do not leave valuables in your vehicle overnight.
· Do not leave loose change inside of your vehicle.
· An alarm is an effective deterrent.
For more tips on how to protect your property, visit RCMP, ICBC, and City of Chilliwack auto crime prevention websites.
RCMP remind everyone who witnesses anything they believe to be suspicious in nature to contact the Chilliwack RCMP at 604-792-4611 or, should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).