WINNIPEG — This isn’t his usual beat, but Patrol Sergeant Phil Penner is searching for answers. Why is River Heights the hotspot for thieves after another rash of break-ins Thursday night?
“We’re just trying to make people aware of the property crime in their area,” said Patrol Sgt. Penner.
35 police officers and cadets went door-to-door Friday in River Heights handing out information to residents and giving advice on how to prevent property crime. The latest push in Project Comet launched last year.
READ MORE: Winnipeg police aim to reduce crime in River Heights
“There was nothing of value in there,” John Sinclair said. Nothing to steal, but thieves still broke Sinclair’s car window and rummaged through it Thursday night. At least seven vehicles were hit nearby.
“This could happen every night. How do you stop it?” Sinclair said.
After dozens of break-ins this year, the community and police held a forum in April in hopes of finding ways to reduce crime.
WATCH: River Heights residents discuss crime spree at public forum with police
Soon after 26 people were arrested for break and enters in River Heights. Police and residents thought the problem was gone.
“We need the help from the community,” said Penner, “as long as their coming to this community and they’re getting property they’re going to keep coming back…locking garage doors, locking your house, I think one of the big things is not leaving property in the cars or in the yard, visible to someone walking by.”
Advice Sinclair will take because he doesn’t want anything else going wrong.
“We just got flood water in our basement, this has happened, things happen in three,” said Sinclair. “I’m just looking over my shoulder.”
Police also suggest if you’re going away, tell your neighbours so someone can watch your property. They’re asking anyone who sees anything suspicious to call police right away at 204-986-6222.
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