Mounties arrest Scrooge who allegedly stole Christmas presents in Surrey

A man is in custody after allegedly breaking into homes in Surrey and stealing toys and clothes destined for under the Christmas tree.

Surrey RCMP said the two break-ins happened on December 16 in the area of 61 Avenue and 185 Street. Both involved a man trying to gain access to garages.

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Property crime officers, a K-9 unit, and “Integrated Air Services” worked together to bring the man into custody, and were able to recover all the stolen goods.

“This is a season of giving for most of us. But for those that would rather take, well, we’ll be there for you too,” Staff Sgt. Ryan Element said in a news release.

Eugene Lane, 34, of Surrey has been charged with two counts of break-and-enter with attempt to commit theft.

Mounties advised people going away over the holidays to make sure their homes look lived in to discourage thieves.

Heading out of town for the holidays? Unoccupied residences are a favourite target for thieves. Make your home look lived in! pic.twitter.com/M8mmI5lxfW

— Surrey RCMP (@SurreyRCMP) December 20, 2019