Vancouver police are praising a Killarney block watch volunteer for their actions, which led to the arrest of a theft-from-auto thief.
Just after 4:30 a.m. on Aug. 13, the volunteer noticed a suspicious person near Rupert Street and East 59th Avenue. Using his Block Watch training, he called 911 and resisted the urge to interfere.
He remained on the phone and was able to relay important information to police. Officers arrived in minutes and caught the suspect after he smashed a parked vehicle’s window and took items from inside.
A 22-year-old Vancouver man was arrested and is charged with theft under $5,000.
“We want to encourage more people to sign up for the Block Watch program,” said Sgt. Jason Robillard. “The volunteers are an extra set of eyes and ears for police in the community.”
Police urge anyone who spots a suspicious person, activity or vehicle, to call 911 and resist the urge to yell at the suspect or get involved.
