A combination of an alert citizen, an immediate call to police, and effective patrol response ended with two suspects in custody for break and enter Wednesday.

On February 10, 2010, shortly before 1:00 pm, a man arrived at a family residence in the 3200 block of Marine Drive to find an unknown vehicle in the driveway.

One male was in the vehicle. A second male was observed attempting to open the front door. After a brief conversation, the males left.

West Vancouver Police were called immediately and provided with the vehicle license plate and descriptions of the vehicle and males. Officers began patrols and monitoring traffic leaving the area.

The vehicle was seen on the Trans Canada Highway, and stopped on Cypress Bowl Road.

After further investigation, two males were placed under arrest. Investigators subsequently recovered small safe and other evidence from the vehicle.

Police have identified the lawful owner of the safe and confirmed a separate break-in at a home in the 4600 block of Decourcy Court.

West Vancouver police are recommending charges of Attempt Break and Enter, Break and Enter, Possession of Stolen Property over $5000 and Possession of Break-In Instruments.

A 17 year old youth and an 18 year old man, both Vancouver residents, were held at West Vancouver Police Headquarters pending a first court appearance at North Vancouver provincial court today.
 

Police encourage all residents to ensure their homes and vehicles are properly secured, and to promptly report any suspicious activity.

West Vancouver Police have received a total of 13 Break and Enter calls since January 16th, 2010.   Police encourage all residents to consider the following prevention tips and to take steps to reduce your risk of being a victim.

• Consider installation of a home alarm system. If you have an alarm system ensure it's properly maintained and set when you are away from your home.
• Never leave wallets, garage door openers or other valuables in parked vehicles.
• Ensure all parked or unoccupied vehicles are left locked.
• Never store bikes, tools or other valuables in open carports or insecure sheds.
• Avoid leaving ladders or other equipment stored outside that could be used by an offender to break into your home.
• Ensure you collect your mail from your mail box every day it is delivered.
• Report suspicious people who knock on your door, claiming to be looking for someone who does not live there, or is asking for directions.