A rise in the number of locker break-ins at the Port Moody recreation complex over the last month has police reminding patrons to leave their valuables at home.
Sgt. Travis Carroll told The Tri-City News Monday there have been five thefts since August, with thieves making off with everything from wallets to clothing.
"We want to make sure people are aware that this is a possibility and make sure they are securing their items and not bringing valuables to the gym," he said.
Carroll added that police are working closely with city staff to raise awareness of the thefts and patrols of the locker room are being increased.
Coquitlam initiated a bait locker program 10 years ago after a rise in similar thefts at the City Centre Aquatic Complex. Bait lockers are armed with alarms so when a person pries open the door, staff and security are notified immediately.
Signs are also placed around the locker area informing would-be thieves the risks of opening a bait locker. According to city staff, the initiative led to a significant decrease in the number of locker break-ins. Similar success was seen at Port Coquitlam's Hyde Creek rec centre.
Carroll said police in Port Moody are aware of the program.
"We are not necessarily going to rule that out," said Carroll. "I don't want to speak to our investigative techniques."
