NEWS RELEASE
NIAGARA REGIONAL POLICE
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8 District (Grimsby / Lincoln / West Lincoln) detectives from the Niagara Regional Police Service are actively investigating a series of overnight residential break and enters in the towns of Grimsby and Lincoln.
On March 20, 2024, 8 District uniform officers responded to eight residential break and enters in the towns of Grimsby and Lincoln. The break and enters occurred between the hours of 1 and 5 a.m. Thieves entered homes when people were sleeping through unlocked exterior doors to residences and attached garages. Thieves stole personal items including identification and credit cards. Detectives determined that some of the stolen credit cards were later used in the Hamilton area.
The break and enters occurred in the areas of:
- Grimsby - Olive Street and Princess Boulevard
- Lincoln (Beamsville) - Lincoln Avenue, Northgate Crescent, and Frances Crescent.
Damage and loss estimates are not completed.
The investigation is in its early stages, but detectives believe three suspects were involved.
Anyone with information about these incidents are asked to contact the investigating officers by calling 905-688-4111, option 3, ext. 1009023.
Anyone (residents or businesses) in the areas where the break and enters occurred with closed circuit security cameras, doorbell video cameras, or dash cameras are asked to review their footage for suspicious activity for the period between 1 and 6 a.m. on March 20, 2024.
Members of the public who wish to supply information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to persons who contact the program with information which leads to an arrest.
Tips to assist with the prevention of residential break and enters:
- Create a security routine every night at the same time. Lock everything up. All doors, all windows, gates, and cars.
- Lock Doors and Windows: Ensure all doors and windows are securely locked, even when you're at home during the daytime.
- Install Quality Locks: Use deadbolts and high-quality locks on all entry points to deter forced entry.
- Keep Valuables Out of Sight: Close blinds or curtains to prevent potential burglars from seeing valuable items inside your home.
- Utilize Security Systems: Install a home security system with quality cameras and alarms to deter burglars and alert authorities of any suspicious activity. Two-way communications, sirens, and a strobe light are good accessories to consider when purchasing a system.
- Secure Garage Doors: Keep large garage doors and small side doors closed and locked to prevent access to tools or ladders that could aid in a break-in.
- Maintain Landscaping: Trim shrubs and trees near windows and doors to eliminate hiding spots for potential intruders.
- Be Vigilant of Strangers: Be cautious of solicitors or unfamiliar individuals, and do not allow entry to anyone you do not know or trust.
- Use Timers for Lights: Install timers on indoor and outdoor lights to give the appearance of occupancy when you're away from home.
- Communicate with Neighbours: Keep in touch with neighbours and exchange contact information to alert each other of any unusual activity in the area. Creating private “groups” on social media can be an effective communication method.
- Signage: Signs such as “Beware of Dog” or “Smile You Are on Camera” “House Protected by Alarm System” may function as a deterrent to the thief.
- Dogs can act as a deterrent to break and enter criminals.
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