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Vernon  

Meters targeted again

Vandals have once again targeted downtown parking meters in Vernon and RCMP are asking the public to keep a watch.

Police say as many as 83 meters have been vandalized during the past several weeks as thieves attempted to steal the coins inside.

Since meters are emptied regularly, officials say the damage done is far greater than the actual theft itself.

"Each meter can cost from $25 to $300 to repair," said Insp. Gord Stewart of the Vernon RCMP detachment.

"The RCMP have increased patrols in the area in order to apprehend the persons responsible, but are asking the public to be vigilant when downtown, and report any suspicious persons believed to be breaking into meters."

This isn't the first time meters have been targeted in the downtown area.

Back in the spring, city council was told bylaw officers had been putting in extra hours to try and catch thieves vandalizing meters and stealing their contents.

During a one week period in 2015, the city spent about $20,000 to repair more than 100 meters that were damaged.

The person in that instance was apprehended.

If you have any information on the latest spate of vandalism to meters, you're asked to call the Vernon RCMP or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477.



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