The West Shore RCMP have successfully managed to return several stolen Christmas presents after a trespassing incident in Langford.
In a police report issued on Monday, West Shore RCMP indicated that the stolen presents were left behind during a separate break and enter that occurred near the 3100-block of Jacklin Road in Langford.
According to police, officers received a theft complaint about a female suspect, who gained entry to the complex by buzzing random apartments until one let her inside.
Police said that upon entering the building, the women attended the underground parkade and began trying different car doors and searching inside unlocked vehicles.
During the incident, the suspect left behind a bag in the parkade. West Shore RCMP says that based on the packaging of the items in the bag, they appeared to be stolen Christmas gifts.
According to the report, a patrol officer began working on the “tedious task” of identifying to whom the presents belonged.
RCMP note that the investigation led the officer to a few different families residing near the apartment complex who claimed they had recent deliveries stolen from their front porch. Police say the packages included sentimental gifts, like handmade children’s dolls and personal crafts.
The officer has been able to return the stolen presents to the rightful owners as of Monday.
West Shore RCMP says that officers have identified the suspect and are continuing their investigation into trespassing, theft and possession of stolen property – for which charges are forthcoming.
“We see many thefts from vehicles during the holiday season. It is a good practice to lock your car doors and take your valuables with you. If you are getting packages delivered to your home, try a scheduled delivery or have a trusted neighbour keep an eye out for your property,” said Cst. Nancy Saggar, West Shore RCMP Media Relations Officer.
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Graham Cox
