Attempted theft from a vehicle in Sarnia - Aug 26/21 (Photo courtesy of Sarnia Police Service)Attempted theft from a vehicle in Sarnia - Aug 26/21 (Photo courtesy of Sarnia Police Service)
Sarnia

Spike in thefts from unlocked vehicles in Sarnia (VIDEO)

There has been a spike in thefts from motor vehicles in Sarnia over the last few weeks.

Cst. John Sottosanti is reminding people to take the extra time to lock your car doors, both day and night.

"People have been leaving their credit cards and wallets in their cars and people have taken them," said Sottosanti. "Now with the feature where you can simply tap credit cards and purchase your item, it's pretty easy for thieves to use it and rack up a credit card bill."

Cst. Sottosanti said it's important to avoid leaving valuables like wallets, electronics, and money in the vehicle, adding it takes thieves less than a minute to go through a car.

Police can't pinpoint the reason for an increase in thefts, but said financial hardship over the last 18 months could be a factor.

Last weekend alone, Sarnia police responded to 11 reported thefts and six break and enters.

Read More Local Stories

New military crosswalk rendering. (Image courtesy of the Sarnia Legion Branch 62)

New military crosswalk in Sarnia to be unveiled

As part of a partnership between the Sarnia Legion Branch 62 and City of Sarnia, an unveiling ceremony will be held at the corner of Christina Street and Wellington Street on Sunday, June 7, at 2 p.m.

Members of the Sarnia Police Service entering a Tashmoo Avenue residence on June 4, 2026. (Photo courtesy of the Sarnia Police Service)

Two men arrested in Tashmoo Ave. standoff

Sarnia police said the investigation began on May 29 after the victim was allegedly attacked by acquaintances at a residence near Tashmoo Avenue and Christopher Drive at Aamjiwnaang First Nation.