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Battleford’s RCMP investigating two truck thefts

Aug 14, 2017 | 5:00 PM

Battlefords RCMP are reminding residents once again not to leave keys in their vehicle as two trucks were stolen on August 13.

A black 2014 Ford F150 with Saskatchewan license plate AAE 950 was stolen from the 8000 block of 18 Ave., and the owner’s keys and wallet was left in the vehicle.

A blue 2008 Chevrolet Silverado with Saskatchewan license plate 286 FWX was also stolen at roughly 3:30 a.m. on West Park Drive. The vehicle was left unlocked with the key fob inside.

Both matters are still under investigation.

According to Tyler McMurchy, Manager of Media Relations at SGI, there is an indication from law enforcement that a large portion of vehicle thefts happen because of keys left in the vehicle.

As a result, SGI began to consider insurance consequences for owners earlier this summer.

While no definitive decision has been made, Tyler McMurchy, Manager of Media Relations at SGI, said the public can expect a strong focus on education and awareness regarding leaving keys in unattended vehicles.

“What we’re hoping to do is deter people from leaving keys in their vehicles, and make the criminal’s job that much harder, so they can’t actually commit the crime.” McMurchy said. “We’re going to be looking at ways how we could do that.”

SGI has recommended the following steps to prevent your vehicle from being a target:

  • Shut windows tightly and lock all doors
  • Never leave your vehicle running while unattended
  • Even if the vehicle is locked, remove all valuables from your vehicle including spare change
  • Don’t leave a spare set of keys in your vehicle
  • Park in well-lit areas at night, or a more secure place such as a garage
  • Consider installing an alarm system, or use a theft prevention device such as a club

If you have any information about these vehicle thefts, please contact the Battlefords RCMP at 306-446-1720, or call Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

 

jared.gottselig@jpbg.ca

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