Rise in break and enters possibly the work of organized crime, Ottawa police warn

Police in the nation’s capital are warning an increase in residential break-ins could be the work of organized crime groups.

According to a press release dated Nov. 8, over the last several weeks police have noted an uptick in reported break and enters. Data shows that in the last seven days there have been 43 break-ins across the city, a small increase from 42 the week prior.

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Officers believe the groups are targeting homes that are accessible from the back of the property by greenspace, forested areas, trails and golf courses.

The press release notes that culprits mainly enter through the second-floor windows or doors using a collapsible ladder they bring themselves or they use the homeowner’s ladder. In some instances, police note, suspects have used patio furniture to gain access to the second floor.

“This method of entry is all to avoid detection of main floor cameras that many homes have namely, doorbell cameras or perimeter cameras that are pointed toward the ground levels,” officials said.

A pattern has emerged for police that say in most instances of break and enters at least two suspects are involved and are wearing dark clothing and are often hooded or masked, while carrying backpacks.

Police believe they park a vehicle, in some cases more than a kilometre away, then walk to the targeted residence. The vehicle used is often a stolen or a rental car.

Most of what is taken from the home is high-end jewellery and currency. Break-ins have happened both during the day and night.

“In some instances, they have thrown pebbles at rear windows as a test to see if anyone is home,” officials said.

Officers are urging people to:

• People with jewelry and/or currency use safety deposit boxes, or a very secure safe that cannot be removed from the home
• Be mindful of leaving second floor windows and doors opened or unlocked
• To reposition or add second floor security cameras and backyard cameras

Police are urging people to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity.

Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to contact the Ottawa Police Service Break and Enter Unit at 613-236-1222, at extension 4533.