Good Day Block Watch Captains, Co-Captains & Participants,
West Vancouver Police have responded to 277 calls for service since our May 29th update.
For updated crime alerts anytime click westvanpolice.ca/crime-alerts
Distraction Thefts
From our Crime Alerts this week, a suspicious person report to take note of. An elderly resident reported being confronted by aggressive female trying to sell gold & watches. Fortunately, nothing was stolen and the resident managed to safely extricate themselves from the unwanted conversation, however, the suspect’s actions were consistent an attempt at a Distraction Theft.
In Distraction Theft offences, thieves will use a variety of tactics to occupy a victim’s attention, while the suspect or an accomplice steals something.
Tactics can include.
- offering unrequested help, or telling a person getting into their vehicle of a problem or damage on the other side of the vehicle
- asking a person to try on a necklace or other jewelry, then stealing jewelry the person was already wearing
Distraction Theft Prevention Tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings and be cautious of strangers who approach you unexpectedly.
- Avoid displaying valuable items like jewelry in public and keep them securely stored.
- Be wary of anyone who is overly friendly or helpful, especially if they are trying to engage you in a conversation or ask for help.
- If you feel uncomfortable or suspicious, distance yourself from the situation and seek help if needed.
If you see anyone you believe is acting suspiciously, please don’t hesitate to call West Vancouver Police.
Grad Season Is Here With Summer To Come
Grad ceremonies and the annual wind-up of the school year are upon us. We wish all the 2025 Grads a happy & safe celebration of their accomplishment. The end of the school year can bring an increase in disturbance related behaviours in neighbourhoods, parks & public areas. Please don’t hesitate to call West Vancouver Police if you’re concerned about any large gatherings involving excessive noise, liquor act violations or property damage.
Thefts
Valuables left in unattended vehicles accounted for all four of five Theft from Auto reports received over the past this week. We urge you to consider avoiding storage of any items of value in an unattended vehicle, locked or not. Even in a locked vehicle, side window glass is no obstacle for a determined thief.
Anytime you see activity of concern, please don’t hesitate to call West Vancouver Police. Call 604-925-7300 for non-emergency matters. Call 9-1-1 in an emergency, including events that involve an immediate threat to a person or property or to report a substantive crime in progress. For updated crime alerts anytime click westvanpolice.ca/crime-alerts.
Jeff Palmer
Block Watch & Operational Support Coordinator
West Vancouver Police
t: 604-925-7300
