By Pete McIntyre

Suspects arrested after parking meter break-ins

Mar 11, 2020 | 12:37 PM

Two suspects have been arrested after more parking meter break-ins in downtown Vernon.

Police received two calls from the public about break-ins on Tuesday night (March 10).

“At 9:20 p.m., an alert citizen contacted police to report a suspicious man who appeared to be breaking into a parking meter,” Cpl. Tana Finn, media relations officer, said. “The witness was able to provide a detailed clothing description of the suspect. Front line officers responded but were unable to locate the lone male.”

Finn said about five minutes later, police received a call from another citizen advising three men were breaking into parking meters in a different area of the downtown.

“Our front line officers responded immediately and located three men in the area that matched the descriptions given by the witness. Two of the suspects were arrested by police while the third suspect fled on foot. Despite numerous patrols by other available front line officers, the third man could not be located. None of the clothing descriptions of these three individuals matched the description given for the first suspect reported to police.”

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The men aged 28 and 35 were arrested.

Police said they were found in possession of break-in instruments, and a small quantity of Canadian quarters, loonies and toonies.

“Both men are known to police and one has a history of similar type of theft in the Vernon area,” Finn said.

“Both of these incidents came to the attention of the police because concerned citizens witnessed suspicious activity and took the time to call us,” Finn added. “We appreciate the public’s assistance in identifying these crimes as they occur. Without these calls from the public, police would not have been in a position to make an immediate arrest.”

Police are investigating close to 40 other incidents of parking meter vandalism this month, with the City of Vernon assessing the damage and repair costs.

If you see suspicious activity or witness a crime, please contact the RCMP non-emergency line of 250-545-7171, or remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, or leaving a tip online at www.nokscrimestoppers.com.

by Pete McIntyre

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