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July 12, 2013 - 11:39 AM
KELOWNA - An RCMP awareness campaigned aimed at preventing thefts from vehicles seems to be working.
Areas chosen for the campaign had the highest number of theft from vehicles reports. From June 10 - 30, volunteers participated in 23 patrol shifts during the day targeting areas near the hospital, Sutherland Avenue and two areas in Rutland, north and south of Hwy 33 in Gertsmar and Hollywood Road.
The campaign also involved handing out about 7,000 orange flyers with the simple message to lock vehicles and remove or hide possessions left inside. The result was a 32 per cent reduction in theft from vehicle reports in targeted areas.
"This campaign proved to be an effective way of actively engaging our RCMP volunteers and truly making an impact on reducing crime in our neighbourhoods," Mission community policing coordinator Colleen Cornock says. "Our volunteers received positive feedback from residents and tourists alike, all pleased with the high visibility crime prevention initiative."
The RCMP says 70 per cent of all thefts from vehicles happen when doors are unlocked.
To report a theft contact Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
News from © iNFOnews, 2013