Media Release - Statistics Show Downward Trend in Crimes Against Property

Last year saw a decline in the number of stolen vehicles in Prince Albert, and police are reminding residents to lock their vehicles and keep valuables out of sight to keep their property safe.

During the week of January 25-31, the Prince Albert Police Service received nine reports of stolen vehicles in the city. In three of these cases, the vehicle was warming up at the time it was stolen. With the extreme cold currently affecting our community, the police service reminds residents to ensure vehicles are not left unattended.

Other files involved one vehicle taken without the owner’s consent and several that were missing keys. Seven of the stolen vehicles have since been located by police with two files still outstanding.

The vehicles were taken from various neighbourhoods across the city.

Statistics presented to the Prince Albert Board of Police Commissioners show a significant decrease in the number of reported crimes against property in 2020. Last year, there were 2,581 reports, including wilful damage, theft, shoplifting, theft from vehicle, and stolen motor vehicles, a 23 per cent decrease over the previous year. In 2019, there were 3,351 reports.

Vehicle thefts accounted for 264 reports to police in 2020, compared to 330 in 2019. Many of these thefts were the result of thieves having access to a vehicle key or fob.

From January 25-31, 2021, police also responded to 5 reports of break and enters involving 1 residence and 4 outbuildings such as sheds or garages.

Residents are reminded to ensure their property is kept locked at all times to reduce the risk of theft or vandalism. Anyone who notices suspicious activity in their neighbourhood should contact police by calling 306-953-4222.

Incidents of theft or vandalism can also be reported using the Report a Crime option on the Prince Albert Police website at www.papolice.ca.