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Vehicle thefts still a problem in Alberta

The theft of vehicles, especially pickup trucks, remains a constant throughout Alberta, inconveniencing the lives of many people...
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Police warn residents to lock their vehicle doors

The theft of vehicles, especially pickup trucks, remains a constant throughout Alberta, inconveniencing the lives of many people, including those in Stettler and area.

RCMP are reminding people to lock up their vehicles, and to not leave keys in the ignition.

With Christmas around the corner, opportunistic thieves are looking for vehicles left unlocked to snatch presents, identification, cheques, loose change and cigarettes, to name a few popular targets.

Simply placing items out of sight isn't enough with today's vehicles. An unlocked vehicle provides easy access on most vehicles to a trunk release, which allows the thief or thieves to rummage through the trunk.

Rural residents aren't protected by long driveways and distant neighbours, either.

In the early morning hours of Dec. 3, a Kitscoty area family learned that lesson the hard way.

According to RCMP Sgt. Juan Huss, "someone entered a farmyard located northwest of Tulliby Lake and stole a black 2010 Chevrolet 2500 pickup truck."

The truck, which featured Saskatchewan licence plate 605CYM, is a four-door crew cab with a factory chrome package.

In the past, Stettler RCMP Sgt. Phil Penny has stressed the importance of locking up.

"That I need to say that (locking up is important) indicates (vehicle break-ins are) still a problem," he said.