Businesses and vehicles targeted in Penticton thefts

PENTICTON – Vehicle theft and break and enters continue to keep Penticton RCMP busy.

Two office doors were damaged at Peach City Medical on Wednesday, March 15, causing $1,000 worth of damage to the entrance in what appears to be a break and enter, Penticton RCMP media spokesperson Cpl. Ted Manchulenko says. It’s not yet known what was taken in the incident.

People’s Jewellers in Cherry Lane Mall reported missing a diamond engagement ring, valued at $1,600, on Thursday, March 17. Video surveillance shows the suspects may be known to police and officers continue to investigate.

Early in the morning of March 18, one vehicle was stolen and another the target of an attempted theft, both within reasonably close proximity to each other.

A Ford F350 pickup had its ignition punched and door jimmied in what appeared to be an attempted theft. The truck was ransacked, but was not moved from its location at Dawson Avenue and Government Street. In the second incident, a red GMC Jimmy in the area of South Main Street and Pineview Road also had its door lock jimmied and ignition punched. The vehicle was later recovered.

A break and enter at Blier Contracting at 1565 Fairview Rd. in Penticton resulted in the theft of $50,000 worth of tools on March 19. Thieves made their way around back of the building and gained entrance by forcing locks on the door open. The RCMP forensic unit is investigating and comparing it with other incidents.

Last night, March 21, the owner of a Ford Focus reported vandalism at a Dynes Avenue address. Obscenities were scribbled on the vehicle, which was also keyed.The owner called it an unprovoked attack, having no issues with anyone. Police are asking any residents who might have witnessed the vandalism to call them at 250-492-4300.

To contact a reporter for this story, email Steve Arstad at sarstad@infonews.ca or call 250-488-3065. To contact the editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.