AN investigation led by Surrey RCMP’s Property Crime Target Team has led to over 60 charges approved in a multi-jurisdictional, break-and-enter investigation which began in June.
On June 6, Surrey RCMP’s Property Crime Target Team (PCTT) began an investigation into a series of several multi-jurisdictional residential break-and-enters which occurred across the Lower Mainland. Officers allege the accused would steal garage door openers then return at a later time to gain access into the residence.
The PCTT investigation led to the identification of Matthew Soper as the suspect. He was located and arrested on July 10. He was charged with possession of stolen property over $5,000 and breach of release order at that time.
Subsequent to Soper’s arrest, a search warrant was obtained for his residence and executed on the same day. Police seized several items which were determined to be stolen from those residential break-and-enters including a large quantity of sunglasses, body armour, golf clubs, and identification documents.
On August 1, Soper was charged with 64 charges including:
* Break-and-enter – 7 counts
* Theft of motor vehicle – 5 counts
* Theft over $5,000 – 2 counts
* Theft under $5,000 – 6 counts
* Possession of ID documents – 6 counts
* Possession of stolen property under $5,000 – 7 counts
* Fraud under $5,000 – 5 counts
* Failure to comply with probation – 20 counts
* Failure to comply with release order – 6 counts
Soper remains in custody awaiting his next court appearance.
“We recognize the impact residential break-and-enters have on the citizens of our community. Our team worked diligently to identify, target and arrest this prolific property crime offender to ensure he is held accountable for his actions. The investigation linked him to multiple vehicle thefts and break and enters across the Lower Mainland and in the Interior of BC. His arrest and subsequent incarceration have resulted in safer communities throughout BC,” said Sgt. Jordan Davies, in-charge of Surrey RCMP Auto Theft and Property Crime Unit.
Surrey RCMP thanked White Rock RCMP and Abbotsford Police Department for their assistance.
