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Police offer tips after numerous break-ins reported in city's northwest end

Number of homes ransacked during the day recently

A series of break and enters has city police searching for the suspects responsible while also offering advice on how to deter would-be thieves.

A string of break-ins this month in Barrie’s northwest end has seen a number of homes ransacked during the day while homeowners were not present.

Through investigations following the crimes, police have determined these occurrences are likely related due to their similar nature.

Jewelry and other valuables were taken, but police have a vehicle of interest that had been seen in the area and caught on video surveillance.

Barrie police corporate communications co-ordinator Peter Leon told BarrieToday that while it used to be very difficult to catch thieves, the popularity of home surveillance has narrowed the gap.

“Home security from victims and nearby residences has been very helpful in these types of investigations,” said Leon. “The clarity of the pictures is such that someone can usually recognize a suspect and share that information with police.”

The pictures being circulated by police show a small white Nissan Versa Note, four-door white, hatchback-style car with dark-coloured rims. The only suspect description available is a man with a medium build.

While no home is likely to be 100 per cent break-in-proof, Leon says there are ways to safeguard your home that will deter thieves from trying to enter.

“In today’s society, people need to rightfully take steps to protect their property,” said Leon. “Home security in the form of an alarm system with monitoring or cameras is very useful and can give a homeowner a sense of security when they are away for the day or even a short period of time.

"However, longer stays away should include utilizing interior and exterior lighting with timers, having your driveway cleared of snow, garbage cans and recycling containers put away, newspapers and mail picked up and even having a neighbour park a car in your driveway to make it look like there is someone home or visiting," he added. 

Anyone with information on these break and enters or the suspect vehicle is asked to contact Const. Waugh at 705-725-7025, ext. 2738 or by email at [email protected]. You can also contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or leave an anonymous tip online at www.p3tips.com.