People living in Cambridge’s West Galt neighbourhood say they’re concerned about vehicle break-ins, citing the multiple incidents reported in recent weeks. Jarrett Dunn installed a security camera after it happened to him. “Myself, my father-in-law, and then a neighbour just a few doors down has been broken into twice inside of a couple of weeks,” he told CTV News. Dunn said it felt like the break-ins were becoming more frequent in recent months. “It seems like it’s been fairly extreme.” Among the items reported stolen were laptops, passports and suitcases belonging to a visitor who was preparing to travel back to the United States. Dunn, a contractor, also said a $1,500 bag of tools was taken from his vehicle. Police increase overnight patrols Waterloo Regional Police say they are investigating reports of thefts from vehicles across Waterloo Region, including in Galt. In a statement to CTV News, a police spokesperson said the service has increased proactive overnight patrols using both marked and unmarked vehicles. The force’s crime analyst is also reviewing reports to identify trends, repeat locations and potential suspects. “These efforts have resulted in arrests and charges being laid in connection with several investigations,” added the spokesperson. Police said many vehicle thefts are crimes of opportunity and offenders often target cars that are unlocked or have valuables visible inside. Residents are encouraged to lock their vehicles, remove valuable items and report suspicious activity in their neighbourhood. Anyone whose vehicle has been broken into should contact police as soon as possible and preserve potential evidence, including surveillance video, photographs and information about suspects or vehicles. Residents call for action Pam Wolf, who represents Cambridge on Waterloo Regional Council, said she’s heard from residents concerned about thefts and attempted thefts in West Galt. “People are checking the doors on the cars,” Wolf said, adding that vehicle-related crime has been an ongoing concern around the downtown area. Sheri Roberts, the city councillor for Ward 5, said reporting incidents can help police identify areas where crime is occurring more frequently. “That way, it creates a bit of a hotspot, and the police can be more aware of where these things are happening, and then they’re able to better allocate their resources,” she explained. While Dunn acknowledges that police are trying to address the problem, he said residents need to see real improvement. “I know they’re working incredibly hard. It’s just something has to change. This can’t be the status quo.”
