Surrey RCMP have made two arrests in connection with a slew of garage break-ins last month throughout the city.
In June, an RCMP news release notes, 54 break-and-enters were recorded in Surrey in which the resident's garage-door opener was used as a primary method to gain entry into the home.
The majority of break-ins occurred in Newton and Guildford.
Vehicle keys were the main target of the break-ins, police said, with the stolen vehicles then used to commit additional crimes across the city.
On July 5, officers from Surrey RCMP's Property Crime and Auto Crime teams – with the assistance of crime analysts and forensic services – arrested two men.
"These arrests are the result of solid teamwork," said Surrey RCMP Insp. Shawna Baher. "The spike in this particular crime and subsequent arrests also serves as a reminder that thieves are always looking for opportunities to exploit our inattentiveness… it is up to all of us to be vigilant."
Sean Robert Gullick, a 23-year-old Surrey resident, faces 14 total charges, including multiple counts of break-and-enter; possession of stolen property under $5,000; possession of stolen identity documents; possession of stolen credit card; fraud under $5,000; possession of break-in instrument; breach of recognizance and breach of probation.
Anthony Peter Kalt, 18 and of no fixed address, faces 12 charges, including theft of a motor vehicle; break and enter; possession of stolen property over $5,000; possession of stolen property under $5,000; fraud under $5,000 and possession of a weapon for dangerous purpose.