Montreal police (SPVM) have arrested a 20-year-old suspect in connection with a series of airbag thefts that occurred over the past four months in several boroughs on the island. Mikael Jacob was arrested on Sept. 8 in the Rivière-des-Prairies–Pointe-aux-Trembles borough. The same day, investigators conducted searches inside a residence and a vehicle, which resulted in the seizure of various pieces of evidence. According to police, the thefts took place in the boroughs of Anjou, Mercier–Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, Rivière-des-Prairies–Pointe-aux-Trembles and Villeray–Saint-Michel–Parc-Extension. Jacob appeared at the Montreal courthouse on Wednesday linked to 36 incidents. He faces multiple charges of theft and mischief. He is also charged with possession of break-in tools and failing to comply with conditions. He remained in custody following his court appearance. The SPVM reminds the public to stay vigilant and secure their vehicles. Police say installing a glass-break detector that is sensitive to vibrations, as well as an anti-theft steering wheel bar, can help deter airbag thieves. Parking your vehicle in an area equipped with one or more surveillance cameras is also recommended. Anyone with information about this type of crime is asked to contact 911 or their local police station. People can also submit information anonymously and confidentially to Info-Crime Montréal at 514-393-1133 or online.
