Families building new homes in West St. Paul say a rash of thefts this fall have left people feeling frustrated and scared, but numbers from the RCMP show property crime in the area is declining.
RCMP did a review of crimes related to property over the past three years between Sept. 1 and Dec. 12.
The crimes include break and enters, theft, mischief damage to property. The review found that in 2014 there were 51 crimes, 2015 there were 53 and in 2016 the number dropped to 33.
RCMP say although the numbers are down, any amount of crime is concerning to local law enforcement.
“There is a lot of new construction in the area, which can be attractive to thieves. RCMP continue to patrol the detachment area, but need public assistance as well. If you see something, report it,” said Tara Seel, an RCMP spokesperson on Monday.
“Police have advised construction crews not to leave any valuables on site when nobody is there as a way to help prevent becoming a victim,” Seel added.
READ MORE: Families building homes target of thefts in West St. Paul
RCMP recommend witnesses of crime, or victims report it to police immediately.
West St. Paul Mayor Bruce Henley told CTV News Sunday the number of thefts at the construction sites was a concern, as well some RCMP staffing issues related to what he called ‘soft vacancies’ – and the need to quickly replace people who go on maternity leave or sick leave.
Henley said he asked for additional resources to deal with the problem.
In response, Seel said the East St. Paul detachment, which polices West St. Paul, has 10 police officers on staff – one of those officers is on a graduated return to work.
“RCMP officers work hard and are dedicated to the communities they serve. The East St. Paul Detachment Commander communicates regularly with the Mayor of West St. Paul,” Seel said.
