The city of Fort St. John saw an increase in vehicle related thefts in May, according to the RCMP update on crime statistics.
The update shows an increase in vehicle theft over $5000. In April, seven vehicles were reportedly stolen, while in May that number jumped to 10.
Acting Officer in Charge, Seargent Jaime Moffat said, the Fort St. John police have since recovered three of the vehicles. Half of the reported thefts were Ford F150, F250, and F350 pick-ups.
The city also saw an increase of 111% in thefts from vehicles. The report shows 19 vehicle break-ins in May, after only nine in April. The RCMP has laid charges against one suspect who they say, may be responsible for several of the reported thefts.
Moffat said Mounties continue to work on 4 ongoing drug related investigations. Moffat added that in every one of their drug investigations, someone has been arrested. The list of seized drugs includes cocaine, and in some cases, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. Charges have been recommended against the suspects.
Mounties were also busy with three targeted shooting investigations last month. One of them led to the arrest of a repeat offender.
Moffat said the update shows the recent uptick in crime in May, comes after Fort St. John saw a small decrease of 4,2% in calls for service to start the year.