The sound of metal banging at 4am this morning, February 24th, brought a couple living in the 5100 block of Del Monte Ave to their window.  Outside they saw two people who appeared to be breaking into a grey mailbox.  Parked nearby was a newer looking vehicle.

Saanich Police responded immediately but just missed the culprits who had given up their efforts and fled.   Nearby, officers found a lone man sleeping, or pretending to, inside a 2009 Ford Escape.  He was identified as a 31 year old Victoria man currently on Probation with a number of previous convictions for property offences.  In his possession, police found a number of break-in tools which was in direct violation of his Probation conditions.  He was ultimately arrested and transported back to the Saanich Police Department.

The Ford Escape the man was found in is believed to be stolen out of the Victoria area earlier in the night.  Inside the vehicle was a selection of property that also appears to have been stolen, although currently police have not been able to identify where from.   It is possible the items came from other vehicles broken into over the course of the night and owners have not yet reported their loss.

The man arrested has been released from custody and is currently facing charges of Breach of Probation, Mischief Under $5000 and Possession of Property Obtained By Crime.  Saanich Police are continuing to investigate though with the possibility that more charges may be laid.  The man’s companion(s) at the time of the crime are yet unidentified but efforts are underway to find them.

Anyone with information that can help investigators, particularly if you know something about this crime or had items stolen overnight, is asked to call the Saanich Police at 250-475-4321.

(10-4490)