Waterloo residents warned of recent increase in theft from vehicle incidents

People living in a Waterloo neighbourhood are being warned about a string of recent thefts. CTV’s Ashley Bacon has the details.

Residents living in Waterloo’s Northdale neighborhood are being warned not to keep valuables in their vehicle after dozens of thefts were reported over a five-week period.

Waterloo Regional Police said between July 1 and August 7 they received 38 reports. That uptick prompted them to issue a community alert.

“Typically, in that area in particular, there’s a lot of movement going back and forth between people coming in for school and as well for work,” said Const. Chris Iden. “It is a densely populated area in our community, and it’s one that typically does see a lot more action at this time of year.”

People who live, work and go to school in the area told CTV News they were concerned with the rise in reported thefts.

“It’s a bit worrying that there’s thefts around the area because it’s supposed to be a safe space,” said one Wilfrid Laurier University student.

“I’d get up every morning and I’d be worried,” explained another. “I’d have to go and check that the car is still good and still there and safe.”

“We have to be very diligent nowadays,” said a woman dropping off her son at the university on Wednesday. “We have to make sure that the vehicles are always locked. You just never know, and it’s unfortunate that we have to really do those double checks.”

The latest incident was reported on Aug. 8.

Police said a male entered vehicles overnight in the Regina Street area.

They also released a still, taken from surveillance video, of a suspect.

The University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University are both part of the Northdale neighborhood and, with the fall semester starting in a few weeks, thousands of students will be moving to Waterloo Region.

Police warned that higher density areas, like Northdale, are appealing to those looking for easy targets.

“We have members of our Direct Action Response Team, as well as our strategic services, targeting the area to address it. And we’re working very closely with the universities as well,” Iden said.

Any suspicious behaviour or activity can be reported to Waterloo Regional Police through their non-emergency number.

“But if there is an ongoing criminal activity happening, call 911,” urged Iden.

Neighbours welcomed the latest theft alert.

“I actually think it’s great for community safety and awareness and to put it out there,” said one. “This way, if we all work together to be able to keep more of a safe environment and protect our cars and belongings, we won’t have these issues increasing and insurance and theft and things like that. I don’t think it’s a bad thing, I think its great. I think being proactive is the way to go.”