Comox Valley RCMP – What’s Happening

Comox Valley

2021-04-30 07:42 PDT

Lock them up!

Comox Valley RCMP have seen an increase in theft from unlocked vehicles over the past few weeks. This is a friendly reminder to lock your doors and hide your valuables - these are crimes of opportunity that can be prevented by ensuring that you do your part.

For more information on preventing theft from vehicles, please visit https://www.icbc.com/road-safety/prevent-autocrime/Pages/Default.aspx
 

Scams in the Comox Valley

Thousands lost to phoney romance
Every year, Canadians lose millions of dollars to bogus romance schemes and residents in the Comox Valley are no exception. The Comox Valley RCMP has received recent reports in which people have lost thousands of dollars, believing they are sending the money to people they love or with whom they are in a relationship. For many, the pandemic has sent them into isolation, away from friends and family, leaving them to turn to social media or online dating for companionship. Avoid becoming a victim of these scams by recognizing the warning signs and being careful about who you connect with online.

For more information on these rampant romance scams, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Rental Rip-off
In February, the Comox Valley RCMP warned residents against the common rental scam which has been seen in our community. Unfortunately, this scam is still being reported with seemingly local houses and/or apartments being offered for rent. If you’re looking to rent a property, please be cautious and take careful steps to ensure you don’t lose your money. (Ref. Comox Valley 2021-4560)
For more information, please see the initial media release (2021-02-18) here.

Buying a Tiny House? Be careful.
Comox Valley RCMP has received two reports regarding a potentially fraudulent purchase/deposit for tiny homes in the Comox Valley. The victims have reported that they’ve made deposits to secure the build of a tiny home; however, not received the home or received the home in very poor condition. If you believe you’ve been a victim to something similar, please call the Comox Valley RCMP and make a report. (Ref. Comox Valley RCMP 2021-4861 & 2021-4781)

Break, Enter, and Mischief

On March 23, 2021 the parking garage of an apartment building under construction was broken into on Ryan Road in Courtenay. Once inside, the suspect(s) spray painted the walls and electrical panels, dumped epoxy, dumped chalk, and defecated on the floor. The damage has been estimated at $3000. Surveillance pictures of the suspects have been obtained by investigators; if you know any of these people, please call the Comox Valley RCMP and refer to file 2021-4408.