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(Ross Lavigne/CHAT News)

Mail box break-ins a major concern for Medicine Hat, Redcliff, Dunmore

Apr 2, 2024 | 5:02 PM

Older mailboxes in Medicine Hat, Redcliff and Dunmore have been broken into in recent weeks, with Ross Glen and South Ridge heavily targeted.

A report came in late Tuesday afternoon saying the following locations have been targeted and burgled in the last 24 hours: Ranchlands, Terrace, Desert Blume, Sundown, Sundance, Cottonwood and the Hamptons.

Other neighbourhoods may have been affected, but cannot be confirmed.

Insp. Brent Secondiak of the Medicine Hat Police Service said criminals could use the information collected to commit fraud or identity theft.

Secondiak also said police already have suspects in mind.

“There’s a lot of opportunity to take someones ID and get money in alternative forms,” Secondiak said.

“They can create false documents or ID and get money that way, so it’s very concerning to us,” he said.

“We’re fortunate in this case that we do have suspects in areas identified that we’re targeting who we believe are responsible.”

“We’re still in the midst of an investigation, but we’re hopeful that it’ll come to a positive outcome.”

Canada Post was not available for comment, but signs were found on mailboxes saying mail would be made available at the post office.

Secondiak said that he’s not surprised that Dunmore and Redcliff have also been targeted, noting that this has been a common issue across Canada.

Until the investigation closes, Secondiak recommended people adjust their habits regarding mail delivery.

“I think it’s just checking your mail frequently,” he said.

“If you can, go once a day, check your mail. If you have any valuables coming, if you get notifications for Amazon packages or anything that are delivered, try and pick those items up right away.”

“That way, if there is a theft, the damage will be minimal.”

Secondiak said to call the authorities if you notice any suspicious behaviour such as vehicles staying at a post office box for an unusual amount of time.