Winnipeg police ask for help fighting vehicle break-ins

WINNIPEG — A rash of vehicle break-ins has hit neighbourhoods across the city, police say.

They want help combating the problem.

“We really want to bring these numbers down,” Const. Jason Michalyshen said at a news conference Wednesday morning. “Bottom line is we need your help.”

Police deal with 70 break-ins every week, he said.

No one spot in the city that is seeing a rash of thefts, he added.

District 2 (southwest Winnipeg), St. Norbert, St. James and Osborne all experience several break-ins a week.

Think about where you park your car, police advise; avoid parking in concealed areas and those with little pedestrian traffic.

Close windows, lock doors and take your valuables with you.

“It might seem simple and we live in a busy world and these are the things we often forget,” Michalyshen said.

Smash and grab thieves act on impulse, he said.

“If they see it, they will steal it.”

Laptop computers, mobile devices, wallets and gym bags are a few commonly stolen items.

The thefts occur during daylight hours as well as at night, Michalyshen said.

“It’s not a good feeling when someone violates your space. ”

Police usually only successfully make arrests in these cases when they see the crime taking place, and it’s difficult to catch people, Michalyshen said.