FOLLOWING an investigation throughout May, Chilliwack RCMP say they can confirm that numerous charges have been laid against a man allegedly involved in a residential break-and-enter and other property crimes throughout Chilliwack.

In early May, Chilliwack RCMP noted an increase in residential break-and-enters, as well as thefts of vehicles from residential properties across the community.

Between May 3 and May 15, vehicles were reported stolen from residences on Midtown Way, Spadina Avenue, and Angus Drive. All vehicles were recovered in Chilliwack by police the same day they were reported stolen. The vehicle stolen from Angus Drive was located by police with a male occupant inside who was exhibiting signs of impairment. In addition, bank cards allegedly stolen from the residences on Midtown Way and Spadina Avenue were later reported to have been used in several fraudulent purchases in the Chilliwack area.

Between May 6 and May 7, residential break-and-enters were reported on Linwood Street and Quarry Road. In both incidents, the homeowners’ vehicles were also reported stolen. Both vehicles were recovered by police on the same day they were reported stolen.

Additionally, on May 13, an attempted residential break-and-enter was reported on Evans Road resulting in damage to a vehicle. The suspect left the area prior to police arrival and did not take anything from the property.

Through crime linkage analysis, the Chilliwack RCMP Priority Target Team (PTT) identified a possible suspect and assumed conduct of a targeted investigation with support from Chilliwack RCMP frontline.

As a result of the evidence obtained by investigators, the BC Prosecution Service has approved numerous charges against 33-year-old Stephan Hibak:

* Impaired operation of a motor vehicle
* Refusal to comply with breath demand
* Theft of motor vehicle (two counts)
* Theft under $5,000
* Unauthorized use of credit card (five counts)
* Break-and-enter with intent to commit an indictable offence
* Possession of stolen property over $5,000
* Possession of stolen property over $5,000 (two counts)
* Fraud under $5,000
* Mischief under $5,000

Hibak has been arrested and remains in custody pending his next court appearance.

Chilliwack RCMP say they continue to prioritize property crime and remain committed to identifying and targeting repeat offenders to enhance community safety.

Anyone with further information related to these incidents is asked to contact the Chilliwack RCMP at 604-792-4611.