Over the past month the Medicine Hat Police Service has observed a marked increase in the number of thefts reported from vehicles. To address this concern, we have increased patrols in areas of concern and have arrested and charged individuals responsible for some of the files reported.

Unfortunately, many times these thefts are simply crimes of opportunity with criminals looking for easy targets. Criminals will walk through neighborhoods, trying vehicle door handles, hoping to find an unlocked vehicle. The best way to prevent vehicle burglaries is to remove all your valuables, lock your vehicle’s doors upon exiting and take the keys to the vehicle inside your residence.

To help remind residents to take a few simple steps to protect their property, starting tonight, the MHPS is launching a #9PM routine campaign. Every Wednesday for the next month the MHPS will send out a nightly reminder at #9PM, via the MHPS mobile app, to remind residents to remove valuables from their vehicles, lock their vehicle doors, lock the doors to their residences, turn on exterior lights and activate all alarms and security systems. You can also set a nightly reminder on your smartphones or other devices as a reminder.

The MHPS mobile app is free to download and available for both Apple and Android devices. To report suspicious behaviour in your neighbourhood call 9-1-1 in an emergency or 403-529-8481 for all other non-emergencies.

Media Contact:

Insp Brent Secondiak
Operational Services Division
Medicine Hat Police Service
Ph: 403-529-8416