SURREY RCMP announced on Wednesday that three youths who allegedly stole a parcel from a porch were identified, arrested and referred to extrajudicial measures.

On March 4, police received a report of a theft of package from a residence located in the 8600-block of 156 Street. Police learned that a package containing items such as designer jackets, shoes, sunglasses and T-shirts was stolen.

Surrey RCMP frontline officers’ investigation led to the arrest of three youths, who have since been released from custody. The majority of the items stolen have been returned to their rightful owner.

Given their ages and lack of police history, the youth are being referred to the Youth Intervention Program (YIP). The YIP is designed to divert young people away from the criminal justice system and further criminality. The program holds youth accountable and addresses other issues that may be leading to criminal behaviors.

“Frequent recidivism checks are done on those youth who complete the program, which has a high rate of success deterring participants from future criminality,” said Surrey RCMP Media Relations Officer, Constable Gurvinder Ghag.  “Almost 97% of youth who complete the Youth Intervention Program are not charged with any criminal acts within the first 12 months of completion.”

For more information on the youth programs and services, you can visit the Surrey RCMP website.