Two break-ins in same West Vancouver neighbourhood caught on video

Two breaks-ins in houses from the same West Vancouver neighbourhood were caught on surveillance video Friday, and the homeowners – who are friends – don’t think the incidents are a coincidence.

The videos show thieves entering the houses, which are both in the British Properties, and stealing Christmas presents, jewelry, and other valuables. The first happened at 7:30 p.m., and the second was just shortly after that.

Jamie and Taylor were on a flight back to Vancouver on Friday when they say their back window was smashed, leaving a carpet of glass on the floor and their basement door kicked in.

“They used our patio furniture on the ground so they could crawl under our motion sensors,” Taylor told CityNews. “Essentially they went into every single drawer in the house – every room – they knew what they were looking for.”

Jamie says the thieves were smart about not taking electronics, like laptops and phones, that can be tracked.

Kelly Jackson’s house was broken into shortly afterwards, and she says she has been left heartbroken over what was taken.

“The pieces I’m devastated about are my late Aunt’s: her ring and earrings and a pendant that she wore every day,” Jackson said. “Those items are irreplaceable. I’m absolutely devastated and want to get those pieces back.”

Jackson found the back window of her basement pried open and believes this is where the burglars entered her home.

“I’m frightened,” she said. “I’m scared, and we are going to add more security to this house now. These were big people that broke into my house and ravaged through my room. It’s a desecration. It’s terrifying.”

West Vancouver Police say they responded to four break-and-enters last weekend, and the investigations are ongoing.

The homeowners are offering a reward to anyone who can help identify the suspects.

“If you take a look at the footage, one of the burglars has a very distinctive walk; the physiques are somewhat unique too,” Jackson said. “I’m praying someone will recognize these men and try to stop them.”

Police are advising homeowners who travel over the holidays to take extra steps to protect their properties.

And Jamie and Taylor have some advice as well.

“Be careful what you post on social media, because you never know what people are watching or listening to,” Jamie said.

“We want to warn people in this neighbourhood to have their alarms on, to shut their blinds at night,” Taylor said.

“You have to protect your family.”