Police are investigating a rash of home break-ins that have occurred in east Abbotsford over the past six weeks.
Abbotsford Police Sgt. Casey Vinet said there have been 17 such incidents in the areas of McMillan and McKee roads; Immel Street and Laburnum Avenue; and Marshall and Old Yale roads.
The majority of the break-ins have occurred during the day and mainly involve the burglar(s) gaining entry by smashing a window or glass on a door.
Vinet said jewelry, laptops and other electronics are being targeted.
"In some cases, it is suspected that the thief is spending time casing the neighborhood and waiting for people to leave their homes," he said.
Police are working on identifying the person or people responsible. Vinet said police are recommending the following tips to residents to avoid being targeted:
– fully secure all doors and windows before leaving;
– consider the use of an alarm;
– watch out for each other and report all suspicious activity to police; and
– join/start a Block Watch program.
For more information on how to start Block Watch, call the community police office at 604-864-4814.