Ottawa police say organized crime likely responsible for increase in home break-ins
Ottawa police say they believe organized crime groups are behind a recent increase in residential break-ins across the city.
Investigators say suspects are targeting homes that can be accessed from areas behind them, such as green spaces, forests, trails and golf courses.
Police say the culprits often use a collapsible ladder, the homeowner’s ladder or patio furniture to enter through second-floor windows or doors – and avoid ground-floor surveillance cameras.
They say that criminals also often park their vehicles more than a kilometre away and walk to their target.
In many cases, at least two suspects in dark clothes have stolen high-end jewelry and cash.
Police are urging residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 8, 2024.
The Canadian Press