Break and enter foiled

Photo: Contributed

Two would-be Vernon thieves were arrested Saturday night after a failed break and enter.

RCMP say just before midnight the two men entered the residence on 2800 block of 48th Ave by way of the ventilation system. 

The thieves didn't realize that somebody was inside the building at the time and had called 911. The man inside the home gave the dispatcher live updates describing what sounded like "someone coming through the roof and into his residence through the venting system." 

Within minutes, the two would-be thieves were heard trying to exit the rear door of the home. That is where they were greeted by officers who were waiting for them. 

Both men were taken into custody without incident and were found to be in possession of stolen property. 

"The victim in the home was not injured during the incident and followed the directions of the 911 dispatchers to keep himself safe," said Const. Kelly Brett. "The RCMP is applauding the resident for following the directions of the 911 operators, as they are specifically trained to provide instructions until Police arrive on the scene."

The RCMP does not recommend confronting individuals and placing yourself in harm’s way. 

Gabriel Luke and Stanley Michell, both of Vernon, have been charged with break and enter, possession of stolen property, possession of break and enter instruments and masking the face to commit an indictable offence. 

Both men were held in custody and are scheduled to appear in court on June 21.