DRUGS FUELING BREAK-INS

Break and enters in Sarnia have increased by 32 percent in the last
year -- and police are linking the rise in burglaries to illegal drugs.

In 2008 there were 111 break and enters, and in the same period in
2009 there have been 146..

"We're seeing a bit of an increase," said Chief Phil Nelson. "We know
break and enters are tied to the drug trade."

Some of the main items thieves are stealing include electronics,
jewelry and purses, Nelson said.

"They're looking to steal things they can use for drugs -- anything a
person can fence or sell."

In the latest cases of break and enters, on July 20 police responded
to a call to Lansdowne Public School, where suspects entered the
school through a window and stole a computer monitor.

On June 21 suspects entered the Mitton Street Bargain shop through the
roof of a vacant neighbouring property and stole merchandise.

And on July 22 someone entered a London Road home through an open
window.

Police are warning homeowners and businesses to take the necessary
steps to avoid being the victim of a break and enter.

Nelson said people should lock their doors and windows, keep windows
closed at night, lock the garage door at all times, have a bright
outdoor light, keep basement doors and windows locked and keep drapes
drawn.

"You don't want to give people an opportunity to see what you have,"
Nelson said.

Police will also visit homes to conduct security assessments free of
charge.