Broken boat theory?

Photo: Contributed

With a special weather statement issued by Environment Canada calling for more high winds in the Okanagan Valley Friday afternoon and evening, boaters are battening down the hatches preparing for the worst.

There are still vessels from the last wind storm at the end of June that are beached. The sailboat that washed up on the beach on Lakeshore Road by the Bluebird Road South Beach access is one case in point.

Some residents who live in the area say they are concerned the boat will begin attracting kids and partiers to the area.

Tina Martin tells Castanet, "I looked at the boat a couple of evenings ago myself. Its weird that it has no name or number on it. But the boat has stickers from the Summerland Marina on the mast. Wharf B, slip 6. Maybe someone should inquire there? The RDCO/RCMP has done so? Please help get it off the beach ... thanks."

Police across the world often refer to the broken glass theory, which is a criminological theory that visible signs of crime, anti-social behavior, and civil disorder create an urban environment that encourages further crime and disorder, including serious crimes.

Kelowna RCMP tell Castanet they have not received any missing boat reports in connection with the sailboat

Castanet has also reached out to Transport Canada for clarification on whose jurisdiction the boat would fall under if the owners do not come forward to claim the vessel.