Halton cops think Oakville smash-and-grab thefts are related

A pair of smash-and-grab robberies in the same southeast Oakville neighbourhood may be related, Halton police believe.

On Tuesday, Jan., 9, between 6 and 7 p.m., police responded to two break-ins in the same neighbourhood in Oakville. Investigators believe these incidents to be related and committed by an organized crew of suspects.

Police think thieves are taking advantage of reduced daylight hours and targeting homes at a time when people may not have arrived home from work.

Suspects are smashing a rear window or patio door and targeting the primary bedroom looking for jewelry, cash, and other valuables.

The HRPS 2 District Criminal Investigations Unit is investigating these crimes, however, at this time, no arrests have been made.

In light of these incidents, police would like to remind residents of the following safety tips to help deter break and enter crimes:

• Make your residence appear occupied when no one is home (consider timers for lights and electronics)
• Lock and secure all windows and doors
• Consider installing interior and exterior video cameras
• Establish open lines of communication with neighbours and report any suspicious activity to the police

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the 2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4777, ext. 2216.

Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or at the website.