Flags wave outside the Whitehorse RCMP building. CKRW File Photo.
Whitehorse, YT – Property crime in Whitehorse has risen across the board this summer compared to last summer according to the Whitehorse RCMP.
From April to June, property crimes have risen sharply, with reported break-ins up to 72 from 56 last year, vehicle thefts rising from 28 to 45, thefts from vehicles more than doubling from 37 to 77 and bicycle thefts rising from 13 to 34. Over half of these incidents occurred in the downtown area.
In response, Whitehorse RCMP has stepped up downtown safety measures, conducting 144 foot patrols and concentrated vehicle patrols during evening hours. The Car 867 program, which pairs officers with mental health nurses, has been expanded to operate seven days a week.
Police have been tackling a surge in property crimes throughout this past July, the RCMP say progress has been made on several investigations.
While five break-ins reported on July 17th remain unsolved, various other investigations led to arrests including a 40-year-old man who was arrested and charged with the break-in at three downtown restaurants.
The RCMP urges anyone with information about crimes to contact them at (867)667-5555 or Crime Stoppers at 1-(800)222-8477 for anonymous tips.
