How do I...
If the crime you are reporting is an emergency, call 9-1-1.
If the crime you are reporting is not an emergency, you can call the non-emergency line at 604-525-5411 or attend our Front Counter at 555 Columbia Street, New Westminster, BC.
In the past three months, the Queensborough area has experienced an increase in the number of residential break and enters. Investigations have indicated that there may be as high as nine break-ins within a three month period. The break and enters are being investigated by our Patrol and, Major Crime investigators.
We do not currently have a suspect(s) description however, we can advise that the trend follows a pattern of daytime break and enters wherein no occupants are in the residence at the time of the offence. Our criminal intelligence and forensic investigators have identified other similarities that are part of the on-going investigations. As has been experienced in the past, it may well be one individual that resides in another municipality and commits their crimes in New Westminster. Our investigators are working with other municipal police agencies to identify trends and suspect(s).
In addition to the ongoing criminal investigations, our patrol officers are conducting extra patrols in the Queensborough area, as are our volunteers from Citizens Crime Watch Patrol and our high visibility Bike Squad volunteers. We ask that if residents observe a suspicious person loitering in the neighborhood to please contact us immediately and, if a suspect is observed pushing, pulling or prying at a buildings door or windows, contact us by dialing 9-1-1. It is important that in either circumstance, the caller makes a quick mental note of suspect description, exact location, and any vehicles associated to the suspect etc. Most importantly, maintain the observation of a suspect from a safe and secrete distance and stay on the phone with our police personal.
Here are a few reminders that we should all practice when it comes to home safety tips;
- Knocking on doors or ringing doorbells is a common tactic for thieves. A doorbell or knock should not go unanswered as this gives the impression that your home is empty. Always use your eye viewer or a window to check who is at your door. Never open your door to a stranger. If a stranger does approaches your home, inquiry through your locked door, as to who they are.
- Always lock up your home, even if you are leaving for a short time or working in your yard. When you are not paying attention, burglars can walk or climb in unlocked doors or windows and quietly exit your home with valuables.
- Keeping a telephone list of important numbers near the phone is not just convenient, but a safety feature as well. Jot down phone number, such as police and the fire department, as well as, your neighbours. If you have to act quickly you can.
- Protect your windows, doors and patio doors by using a secondary locking device and ensure they are always in use. Consider upgrading older locks as insufficient locks can make your home more vulnerable.
- To reduce the likelihood of a break and enter to your residence, do everything you can to make your home appear occupied when you are away: leave lights and a radio on timers, have the lawn mowed, and have newspapers and mail collected.
- Look at the trees or shrubbery located around your property. Consider trimming these back it they create a shield near windows and doors as burglars can use these areas to hide.
- Dark areas are crime attractors. Use some strategic lighting around the exterior of your home, such as using motion sensitive lighting at a tamper proof height.
- Join your local Block Watch or Crime Free Multi-Housing Program as there a number of benefits of being in these programs. Contact New Westminster Police if you are interested in starting one of these programs in your neighbourhood or need additional information on home security.
