The number of thefts from autos in Saanich has plummeted since a 16-year-old suspect was arrested Friday night.
Between May 1 and May 10, 32 vehicle break-ins were reported in the municipality, more than half of which occurring in the same area of Saanich.
On Friday (May 11), a 16-year-old suspect was arrested. He was spotted by a patrol officer on Blenkinsop Road.
Saanich police Sgt. Dean Jantzen said the officer recognized a "puffy jacket" the teen was wearing from surveillance footage from one of the crime scenes.
The Saanich youth, who has had more than 200 run-ins with area police, remains in custody.
Only two thefts from autos were reported in Saanich in the five days following the arrest.
"We usually get a couple a night, so it's very telling," Jantzen said.
The teen was in the possession of knives and a number of felt-tip markers when he was arrested. Police believe he is also responsible for a rash of graffiti in the Lakehill and Saanich Road areas.
No charges with regards to the thefts from autos or vandalism have been laid, but the suspect remains in custody on outstanding warrants.
kslavin@saanichnews.com