A 32-year-old woman has been arrested for stealing a wallet from an unlocked vehicle and using the victim’s information to take out loans over $10,000.
On August 1st, 2019, West Shore RCMP began investigating reports of a wallet stolen from a parked vehicle that was left unlocked.
See also: Sidney RCMP ask drivers to lock car doors after surge in vehicle theft
The day after the theft, the suspect, identified as 32-year-old Langford resident Crystal Bemister, used the complainant’s identity to take out loans of over $10,000 from a money lending business.
She also allegedly changed the complainant’s personal information through Equifax and Trans Union.
RCMP were able to apprehend the suspect after reviewing video surveillance, and a search warrant executed at Bemister’s residence lead to the seizure of other items that were reported stolen, including a camera and identification from another victim.
“We get daily calls for service regarding theft from unlocked vehicles. This particular theft led to the complainant’s personal information being compromised,” said Cst. Nancy Saggar.
“Please do not leave your valuables in your car. Adopt a nightly routine of locking your car doors and check to make sure your home is secure before going to bed.”
Bemister has been charged with one count of theft under $5000, one count of fraudulent use of a computer, 3 counts of fraud and 3 counts of impersonation.
