Sault police report surge in smash-and-grab thefts involving vehicles

Police in Sault Ste. Marie say there has been an increase in recent weeks of cases of thefts involving smash-and-grabs, as well as unlocked vehicles.

“Sault police have received multiple reports of individuals breaking vehicle windows and stealing items from inside,” police said.

On the evening of Sept. 3 alone, there were five such cases outside a business on Great Northern Road.

“Similar smash-and-grab incidents, as well as incidents involving theft from unlocked vehicles, have also recently been reported in the downtown core, east end, and along Great Northern Road,” police said in a news release.

“The majority of incidents have occurred in parking lots. The investigations into these incidents are ongoing.”

Police urge residents to never leave valuables in their vehicles. If you must keep valuable items inside, don’t leave them in a visible area or put them in the trunk.

“Park your vehicle in a well-lit area, or in an area with motion-activated lights,” police said.

“Park your vehicle in view of CCTV cameras, business windows, etc., if possible.”

Report vehicle thefts, mischief or damage caused to a vehicle and other crimes by submitting a report online, at the non-emergency line at [phone] or walk in to file a report.