Evidence seized in multi-jurisdictional mail theft string: Richmond RCMP

The RCMP says it has seized a sizeable amount of evidence in a mail theft string from a residence in Richmond.

Police in Richmond say, in collaboration with a team from the Vancouver Police, they executed a search warrant at a residence on No. 5 Road near King George Park.

The two forces say they found an “extensive amount of evidence” associated with a number of multi-jurisdictional mail thefts and frauds, including a Nissan Pathfinder that was allegedly used in the thefts.

The thefts have reportedly occurred across the Lower Mainland, with the highest concentration in Vancouver and Richmond.

“Criminal operations, such as this, do not stop at a city’s border. We often see multi-jurisdictional offences being committed, which is why police agencies across the Lower Mainland work collaboratively to identify and arrest criminal operations targeting our communities,” Insp. Michael Cohee of the Richmond RCMP said.

Cohee adds that mail and identity theft has a significant impact on people throughout the Lower Mainland.

“By following steps to ensure your mail gets into the right hands, you can reduce the chances that thieves can profit from these crimes,” Insp. Randy Fincham with the Vancouver Police said.

Charges are currently pending and the investigation remains ongoing.

To protect against mail theft and identity fraud, police say people should check their mailboxes regularly, recieve bills or bank statements electronically and have someone else pickup their mail if they’re away. Choosing a shipping option that requires a signature for packages also helps reduce the chance of having packages stolen, police add.

Richmond RCMP and Vancouver Police encourage anyone who has been a victim of mail theft to contact their police of jurisdiction.